Trace minerals are the minerals present in living tissues in very small amounts. Some of them are known to be nutritionally essential, other may be essential.
Trace minerals are needed in very low quantity, yet they play large role in enzymatic reactions, immune function, bone development, reproductive health and defense mechanism.
Despite their low inclusion rate in feed formulations, these minerals are involved in every metabolic and physiological function.
KEY TRACE MINERALS IN POULTRY NUTRITION:
• Zinc
• Manganese
• Copper
• Iron
• Selenium
• Iodine
• Cobalt
• Chromium
IMPORTANCE:
1.SUPPORT GROWTH AND BONE
DEVELOPMENT:
Zinc, manganese, and copper are vital for bone mineralization, and skeletal development. Copper is essential for lysyl oxidase, that is an enzyme which stabilizes collagen and elastin cross-linking.
2.BOOST IMMUNITY:
Zinc and selenium are involved in the production of immune cell and antioxidant defense. Reduce oxidative stress and improve disease resistance, especially in vaccinated or stressed birds.
3.IMPROVE FEATHERING & SKIN QUALITY:
Feathers and skin color are vulnerable to oxidative damage from stress, UV light, or infection. Zinc is required for proper feather formation and skin integrity. This will protect feather follicles and skin cells from damage.
4.SUPPORT ENZYME FUNCTION:
Trace minerals support enzyme function by acting as cofactors for various enzymes. They bind with enzymes and activate their function also facilitate catalytic activity. Many enzymes become less active and less efficient without sufficient trace minerals which leads to impaired physiological functions.
5.ANTIOXIDANT:
Selenium with the combination of vitamin E protects tissues from oxidative damage. Trace minerals neutralize free radicals and reactive oxygen species which are produced during stress, Diseases and vaccination.
Deficiency or imbalance of trace minerals cause following problems:
• Impaired immunity
• Bone problems
• Stress
• Lameness
• Inhibited growth and production
• Reproductive disorders
• Feather loss and dermatitis
• Anemia and pale combs
• Thin and cracked eggshells
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