To optimize the growth and production of animals, we have long realized good nutrition is key. Trace mineral supplementation has been simplified to strictly meeting the parts-per-million requirements set out in the nutrient requirement tables, with little attention given to the form in which the mineral is provided.

Trace mineral absorption and use performs an essential role in dairy cow reproduction and hoof health. The trace minerals play critical roles in the proper functioning of enzymes, hormones and cells. Deficiencies can, and often do, result in less-than-optimal performance and lost opportunity cost.

Could reproductive performance be holding your dairy back? The primary reason for poor reproduction is the inability to determine which dairy cows are in heat and which cows are ready to be bred. With each missed heat, the number of days open increases, total annual milk production decreases and operating profits are reduced.