What is an Organic Trace Mineral (OTM)?

What is an Organic Trace Mineral (OTM)?

Organic trace minerals are composed of at least one trace mineral atom bonded to an organic molecule (such as an amino acid, a peptide, or another organic compound). They enhance the bioavailability and absorption of the metal compared to inorganic forms.

The concentration of the trace mineral in the final molecule depends on the atomic weight of the metal and the molecular weight of the ligand to which it is bound. In most organic trace minerals (OTMs), zinc, manganese, copper, and iron are bound to simple amino acids such as glycine, lysine, or methionine. The lighter the ligand, the higher the trace mineral content. Proteinates, composed of multiple amino acids, are heavier and result in a lower mineral content.

History & Development of trace mineral supplementation : Téléchargez l’article pour aller plus loin

Organic trace minerals such as Plexomin® Zn 26 (zinc glycinate) offer higher bioavailability than inorganic forms, thereby improving animal performance while reducing environmental impact.

Did you know? Certain specific oxides can offer excellent bioavailability

Did you know ? Certain specific oxides can offer excellent bioavailability

The oxides offered by Animine (CoRouge®, HiZox®, ManGrin®), which are unique on the market, have a bioavailability similar to or even higher than that of some chelates considered among the most bioavailable. The physico-chemical characteristics of Animine’s oxides result from a unique manufacturing process. These properties give these oxides high bioavailability.

When comparing the bioavailability of zinc from chelated sources and HiZox® in broilers, it is observed that HiZox® is as bioavailable, or even more so, than other zinc sources.

The assessment of the relative bioavailability of chelated zinc sources is based on studies published between 2002 and 2021, using broilers. The evaluation relies on several biological parameters: zinc levels in bone, plasma, liver, and pancreas. ZnSO₄ (zinc sulfate) is used as the reference, with bioavailability set at 100%.

The results show that the relative bioavailability of chelated zinc sources varies depending on the parameter analyzed. Moreover, bone zinc concentration is considered the most reliable indicator of zinc absorption. Based on this indicator, chelated sources show a relative bioavailability ranging from 105 to 164%, while HiZox® reaches 160%.

The bioavailability of HiZox® is therefore at least equivalent to, if not higher than, that of the best chelated zinc sources.

Source: Animine

How to Increase Broiler Growth?

How to Increase Broiler Growth ?

With the absorption enhancer Lipidol®, it is possible to increase animal body weight and thereby improve feed and production efficiency. The addition of Lipidol® enhances digestion, nutrient absorption, and growth performance, while reducing feed costs.

Effect of Lipidol® on Broiler Growth up to 35 Days of Age

The study involved 900 ROSS 308 broilers over 35 days at a trial station in Hungary in May 2024.

Experimental protocol: 2 feed treatments with 15 repetitions of 30 broilers per treatment.

-Control diet: Standard feed with NSPase and Phytase
-Test diet:
*Starter: Control + 500 g/T of Lipidol®
*Grower: Control – 65 kcal/kg – 3% CP and AA + 500 g/T of Lipidol®
*Finisher: Control – 65 kcal/kg – 3% CP and AA + 500 g/T of Lipidol®


CP and AA: Reduction of crude protein and synthetic amino acids.

Thanks to Lipidol®, body weights at 35 days increased by 52 g, and feed conversion ratios improved by 4 points.

These results indicate that Lipidol® can improve growth performance while reducing feed costs.

Sow Infertility in Late Summer and Early Autumn

Sow Infertility in Late Summer and Early Autumn

Sow infertility can be a significant concern for farmers, particularly in late summer and early autumn. This period, often marked by climatic changes and environmental stress, can negatively affect the reproductive health of animals. What are the key factors contributing to sow infertility during this time of year, and what solutions can be implemented to improve fertility ?

Heat Stress

Sows are particularly sensitive to temperature fluctuations, which can lead to hormonal imbalances, reduced estrus expression, and decreased fertility.

It is crucial to maintain a stable ambient temperature within the optimal range of 18–22°C to ensure good reproductive performance. Prolonged heat during summer can alter feed intake behaviour, leading to weight loss and poor body condition by the start of autumn.

Health Conditions

The spread of diseases and parasites during the summer months can also impair reproductive health in the autumn. Uterine infections, for instance, can have a direct negative impact on conception and gestation.

Reproductive Management

Poor reproductive cycle management may also contribute to infertility. Careful monitoring of heat signs is essential to ensure optimal breeding periods.

What Solutions Can Be Applied ?

Improving the Environment

Creating a comfortable working and housing environment is key. This includes efficient fan usage to limit temperature variations and maintaining adequate warmth during autumn and the onset of winter. Modifying housing to promote airflow and ventilation is also highly recommended.

Optimizing Nutrition

Farmers should work closely with nutritionists to design diets adapted to seasonal needs. Supplementation with vitamins and minerals can be particularly beneficial during periods of stress.

Monitoring Sow Condition

Body condition scoring is essential for early detection and management of fertility issues. This includes backfat thickness (P2 measurement) and other body condition indicators.

Health Monitoring

Establishing a vaccination and parasite control program helps maintain overall sow health. Regular monitoring for signs of illness or infection is crucial to prevent fertility issues.

Sow infertility in late summer and early autumn is a complex challenge that requires a multifactorial approach. By understanding the root causes and applying appropriate solutions, farmers can enhance sow fertility, ensuring the profitability and sustainability of their operations. Proactive attention to health and welfare is the key to successful reproduction.

What to Do in Case of Streptococcus suis in Your Piglets?

What to Do in Case of Streptococcus suis in Your Piglets?

Streptococcus suis is a Gram-positive bacterium. It frequently colonizes the upper respiratory tract (tonsils and nasal cavities), as well as the genital and digestive tracts. This bacterium poses a significant threat to weaned piglets, leading to decreased performance, meningitis and arthritis, septicemia, and increased mortality.

What Are the Preventive Measures ?

Implementing strong biosecurity and hygiene protocols for both sows and piglets is key:

  • Pay close attention to gilts
  • Avoid overcrowding
  • Maintain adequate ventilation
  • Monitor and control other porcine diseases
  • Minimize mixing and movement, especially around weaning
  • Ensure proper cleaning and drying of housing areas
  • Use disinfectants between batches of piglets
What to Do If Streptococcus suis Affects Your Piglets ?

Among potentially effective additives, Feedéal offers CoRouge®, a di-copper oxide and the only monovalent copper oxide (Cu⁺) authorized in the EU for use in animal nutrition (registration number 3b412). Supplementing piglets’ diets with copper can help limit the development of this bacterium.

An in vitro study conducted at the University of Berlin (Germany) demonstrated that only monovalent copper (Cu⁺) from di-copper oxide effectively inhibits the growth of Streptococcus suis. In contrast, other copper sources—copper sulfate, copper chelates, and copper hydroxychloride—showed only limited antibacterial efficacy, as illustrated in the table below : 

The MIC (Minimum Inhibitory Concentration) is the lowest concentration of an antimicrobial agent (expressed in µg/mL) required to completely inhibit visible growth of a tested microbial strain.

This study showed that only 64 µg/mL of CoRouge® is needed to halt the growth of S. suis, while 256 µg/mL is required for all other copper sources.

CoRouge® offers the lowest MIC, this means it is more effective at improving gut and digestive health in piglets, supporting both performance and welfare.

Effects of Sangrovit® Feed in High-Producing Dairy Cows

Effects of Sangrovit® Feed in High-Producing Dairy Cows

Supplementation with Sangrovit® Feed was introduced on December 15, 2023 (two months after changes in corn silage) in a dairy herd with high genetic potential but showing signs of poor digestion and a high level of inflammation (notably a high percentage of mucous in the manure).

Results – Milk Recording Data :

The table below compares the results obtained during the period without supplementation (approximately 1 year) and the period with Sangrovit® Feed supplementation (approximately 7.5 months).

Herd Milk Production

The graph below shows the evolution of herd performance from November 11, 2022, to August 23, 2024. A significant increase in milk production is observed following the start of Sangrovit® Feed supplementation on January 16, 2024.

Results – Robotic Milking System Data

The graph below presents data collected from the milking robot. A high level of consistency in milk production is observed during the supplementation period with Sangrovit® Feed.

Note : Following the increase in milk production after the introduction of Sangrovit® Feed, the individual supplementation plan was adjusted proportionally to match the higher production levels. However, it is important to highlight that the initial increase in production was not driven by increased concentrate feeding—this was introduced only afterward and naturally contributed to maintaining the improved performance.

Feedéal will be at SPACE 2024

Feedéal will be at SPACE 2024

SPACE returns to the Rennes Exhibition Centre from September 17 to 19, 2024. As every year, the International Livestock Show will bring together professionals from across the agriculture and livestock sectors. For the Feedéal team, it’s a great opportunity to meet clients and exchange on the latest solutions in animal nutrition.

Let’s meet on September 17, 18, and 19, 2024 !

You’ll find Feedéal at booth D98 in Hall 9, alongside our partners AB Vista and Animine. This year, Feedéal will also proudly represent its other exclusive partners in France, showcasing products from Phytobiotics GmbH, Pathway Intermediates, Nagel, ZMC Europe, and Arm & Hammer.

Looking for phytogenic solutions, pigments, flavours and sweeteners, colostrum, enzymes, trace elements, medium-chain fatty acids, yeasts, or emulsifiers? Come see us at booth D98 – Hall 9 at SPACE 2024 to discuss your needs with our team!
It’ll also be the perfect occasion to discover the latest products we now offer.

Highlights from the Feedéal Symposium Dedicated to Poultry Nutrition

Highlights from the Feedéal Symposium Dedicated to Poultry Nutrition

On March 20–21, 2024, the Poultry Research Days took place in Tours. This event, held every two years, brings together key players in the poultry sector to explore the latest innovations and research in poultry nutrition.

As a regular attendee, Feedéal took the opportunity to organize its own poultry symposium, joined by several of its partners: Phytobiotics GmbH, AB Vista, Animine, and Pathway Intermediates. The half-day event welcomed Feedéal clients working in poultry nutrition, with the aim of presenting new trials, studies, and products tailored to their evolving needs.

Clients had the opportunity to learn about the benefits of Sangrovit Feed® and Active D® in poultry nutrition, presented by Phytobiotics GmbH. AB Vista showcased the advantages of Quantum Blue® phytase and the Signis® stimbiotic for both broilers and laying hens. To wrap up the day, Animine highlighted the value of precision mineral nutrition through its key products, HiZox® and ManGrin®.

As with the swine symposium held in Saint-Malo prior to the Swine Research Days in early February, Feedéal introduced its clients to a new partner: Pathway Intermediates. This was the perfect occasion for poultry sector clients to discover Lipidol®, a lysophospholipid-based absorption enhancer.

Feedéal would like to sincerely thank all clients who attended this event. The Feedéal team remains available throughout the year to support clients in their projects. Our expertise is at the service of your resilience.

Highlights from the Feedéal Symposium Dedicated to Swine Nutrition

Highlights from the Feedéal Symposium Dedicated to Swine Nutrition

On February 6 and 7, 2024, the Swine Research Days took place in Saint-Malo. As every year, this event brought together all stakeholders in the swine industry to discuss research and innovations aimed at advancing the sector. On this occasion, Feedéal hosted its own swine symposium alongside clients and partners Phytobiotics GmbH, AB Vista, Animine, and Pathway Intermediates.

During the event, Phytobiotics GmbH presented on the use of Sangrovit® Feed, focusing on stress management in piglets. AB Vista shared insights on optimizing the use of Quantum Blue® phytase in pigs, going beyond its standard mineral matrix application. Animine showcased results from two recent trials conducted in the USA and Italy, once again demonstrating the efficacy of HiZox® (potentiated zinc oxide) and CoRouge® (di-copper oxide) in piglets.

Feedéal also introduced a brand-new partner during the symposium. Since early 2024, Feedéal has been distributing Lipidol Ultra®, a lysophospholipid-based absorption enhancer developed by Pathway Intermediates. The symposium was a great opportunity to present this innovative product to Feedéal’s French clients.

Feedéal would like to thank all its clients for attending this event. The Feedéal team remains available throughout the year to support clients with their projects. Our expertise is at the service of your resilience.

Looking back on 2023 with Feedéal

Looking back on 2023 with Feedéal

As 2023 comes to an end, it’s time for Feedéal to reflect on what has been yet another year filled with innovation and meaningful encounters. Let’s take a look back at everything that happened over the past year:

At the beginning of 2023, Feedéal welcomed two new team members:
Hélène Carbain, who joined the Quality and Regulatory department, and Estelle Brissier, who joined the Marketing and Communication team.

This new year also marked Feedéal’s move to its new headquarters in Janzé (Brittany), offering larger storage capacity to continue improving the level of service provided to clients.

In terms of events, 2023 started strong with a symposium dedicated to the swine sector, organized alongside our trusted partners AB Vista, Phytobiotics GmbH, and Animine. In September, Feedéal also took part in SPACE, once again joined by partners Animine and AB Vista for this major industry event.

What’s ahead for 2024?

The new year is just around the corner, and we know it’s going to start with great momentum! Several events are already planned, including symposiums, trade shows, and more.

In 2024, our goals remain the same: to continue supporting you in the development of your projects, and to keep evolving as a company in order to serve you even more efficiently and responsively.

We’re grateful to have spent this year by your side, and we look forward to making 2024 even better.
The entire Feedéal team wishes you a joyful holiday season and a fantastic start to the new year.