Poultry
In the broiler breeder industry, egg quality directly impacts profitability. A strong, well-mineralized eggshell prevents breakage losses, while high fertility, hatchability, and chick health are equally vital. Highly bioavailable sources of zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu), such as glycinate forms, are key to achieving these goals. These minerals strengthen the collagen matrix (Mn and Cu), while Zn supports calcium deposition and protein metabolism, essential for eggshell, egg white, and yolk synthesis.
Glycinates' higher bioavailability leads to increased trace element storage in the yolk, providing essential reserves for fetal development, cellular proliferation, and organ growth. Studies show that glycinates boost trace element concentrations in the yolk, improving fertility, hatchability, and chick development. Additionally, these trace elements enhance antioxidant protection in ovarian and testicular tissues, extending the animals' productive lifespan.
In broiler production, feed conversion ratio (FCR) and carcass quality are critical performance metrics. Both improve significantly when highly bioavailable trace elements are included in the diet. Zinc (Zn) strengthens skin integrity, preventing footpad dermatitis, while manganese (Mn) and copper (Cu) are vital for femur mineralization, ensuring proper locomotion and preventing chest lesions in later production stages. Moreover, zinc boosts protein synthesis and reduces abdominal fat, improving FCR and overall animal performance.
Swine
High-yielding sows need optimal trace element supply to produce healthy, uniform litters, ensure long lifespan, and maintain high fertility. Zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu) are essential for claw health and follicle quality. Iron is also crucial for both sows and piglets, as targeted iron management boosts iron reserves in unborn piglets, improving immune resistance and performance. Low iron in maternal milk and limited reserves often lead to anemia in piglets, making them more susceptible to disease and poor growth.
While subcutaneous iron injections are effective, they are often no longer enough to sustain piglets until they can absorb sufficient iron from their feed. Adding Plexomin® Fe 22 to a liquid supplement provides critical support during this phase. Studies show improvements in piglet mortality, weight gain, hemoglobin levels, and overall profitability in piglet rearing.
Ruminants
For high-yielding ruminants, efficient fiber digestion and microbial protein production are essential. The way in which trace minerals are supplied can have a significant effect on rumen microbes and the availability of these elements to the animal. Unstable forms of trace minerals can alter cell membranes and enzyme activity of microbes, thereby reducing growth rates and energy production. In addition, interactions with antagonistic substances reduce the bioavailability of trace minerals.
Using stable trace element forms, like Plexomin® Glycinates, minimizes these negative effects, improving fiber digestion and enhancing trace element uptake. Zinc (Zn), manganese (Mn), and copper (Cu) are particularly beneficial, improving udder and claw health by supporting cell integrity and reducing oxidative stress.
Maximilian Timpfler has been part of the Phytobiotics family since April 2022. He is the product manager for the organically bound trace elements and in this function he is mainly responsible for the Plexomin product lines. Max discovered his passion for animal nutrition during his master's degree in agricultural sciences at the Technical University of Munich.
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