Trace Mineral Nutrition of Grazing Beef Cattle

Spatial and Bioaccumulation of Heavy Metals in a Sheep-Based Food System: Implications for Human Health

Heavy metal contamination in agricultural soils presents serious environmental and health risks. This study assessed the bioaccumulation and spatial distribution of nickel, cadmium, zinc, lead, and copper within a sheep-based food chain in the Baia Mare region, Romania, which includes soil, green grass, sheep serum, and dairy products. Using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), we analyzed the concentrations of these metals and calculated bioconcentration factors (BCFs) to evaluate their transfer through trophic levels. Spatial analysis revealed that copper (up to 2528.20 mg/kg) and zinc (up to 1821.40 mg/kg) exceeded permissible limits, particularly near former mining sites. Elevated lead (807.59 mg/kg) and cadmium (2.94 mg/kg) were observed in industrial areas, while nickel and cobalt showed lower concentrations, but with localized peaks. Zinc was the most abundant metal in grass, while cadmium transferred efficiently to milk and cheese, raising potential health concerns. The results underscore the complex interplay between soil properties, contamination sources, and biological processes in heavy metal accumulation. These findings highlight the importance of continuous monitoring, risk assessment, and mitigation strategies to protect public health from potential exposure through contaminated dairy products.

Evaluation of Two Levels of Trace Mineral Supplementation to Beef Calves Prior to Weaning

In this 2-year study, approximately 84 days prior to weaning, 24 calves/year (Angus × Hereford) were randomly assigned to one of two treatments: trace mineral (Cu, Se, and Zn) supplementation following NASEM (2016) recommendations (Control) or trace mineral supplementation above NASEM (2016) recommendations (Super). Calves were individually fed, and trace minerals were provided in 0.5 kg of dry distiller's grains three times weekly. Body weight (BW), blood, and liver samples were collected on d 0 and at weaning (d 84). Additional BW and blood samples were collected post-weaning on d 85, 87, 88, 91, 95, and 99 during the preconditioning phase. Initial liver concentrations of Se, Cu, and Zn were similar between treatments (p ≥ 0.69). At weaning, a year effect (p < 0.001) and a tendency for treatment × year effect (p = 0.09) were observed for Cu liver concentration. In year 2, but not in year 1, calves assigned to the Super treatment tended to have greater liver Cu concentration than calves assigned to the Control treatment. Except for Cu, a notoriously limited trace mineral in multiple geographical locations, the supplementation of trace minerals above the NASEM (2016) recommendations did not improve the mineral status of calves in this environment.

Influence of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae-based probiotic complex on gut microbiota, serum biochemistry, and circulating trace element and mineral levels in lactating dairy cows

Background and Aim

The existing data demonstrate that gut microbiota is involved in regulating mineral metabolism in cattle, although the data are quite contradictory. The study aimed to evaluate Saccharomyces cerevisiae-based probiotic's effects on gut microbiota, systemic metabolism, and dairy cows' essential trace element and mineral body burden.

Materials and Methods

Fifteen cows received a daily supplement of a 50 g S. cerevisiae-based probiotic, fortified with methionine, choline, eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, and Capsicum oleoresin, for a month. 16S metagenomic sequencing was used to evaluate the taxonomic features of fecal microbiota. Serum trace elements and minerals levels were determined through inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

Results

Supplementation with S. cerevisiae-based probiotic complex significantly increased alpha and beta diversity, as well as the abundance of Mediterranea and Clostridium IV within the Bacillota phylum, whereas that of Bacteroidota and specifically unclassified Bacteroidales and unclassified Oscillospiraceae decreased. Following probiotic supplementation with the S. cerevisiae-based complex, gut microbiota modulation led to a significant boost in circulating levels of calcium, copper, selenium, and zinc. Creatinine levels decreased while total cholesterol levels increased within normal limits in the serum analysis.

Conclusion

The observed improvement in trace elements and minerals in dairy cows might be due to changes in intestinal microflora caused by supplementation. Therefore, probiotic supplementation in cattle may be considered a potential tool for improvement of mineral nutrition in cattle. However, the influence of probiotic treatment and modulation of mineral metabolism on milk productivity and overall performance in cattle is yet to be estimated.

Trace Elements in Hermann's Tortoises (Testudo hermanni) According to Sex, Season, and Sampling Region in Central Europe

Some trace elements are essential for the health of vertebrates, but little is known about their function, the amounts required, and the factors influencing their metabolism in tortoises. The aim of this study was therefore to measure trace elements (chromium (Cr), cobalt (Co), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), magnesium (Mg), manganese (Mn), molybdenum (Mo), selenium (Se), zinc (Zn)) in heparinized blood plasma of Hermann's tortoises (Testudo hermanni) (n = 520) from March to September 2022 using inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) and to establish specific reference intervals. Additionally, the influence of sex, season, and region of sample collection on the measured values were evaluated. Significant (p ≤ 0.05) sex-specific differences were found for Cu, Mg, and Mn; seasonal differences were found for Cr, Cu, Mn, Mo, and Se; and the region in which the tortoises were kept significantly impacted Cr, Cu, Fe, Mg, Mo, and Se levels. The results show that all of these factors should be consider when establishing and interpreting blood trace element levels in tortoises.

Specific of accumulation of manganese in organs and tissues of Hereford cattle

The elemental status of cattle is one of the important factors, which determine its growth, fertility, fetal development, meat and dairy production, etc. Therefore, the study of content of different elements in cattle organs and tissues and its correlation with cattle characteristics and diet is urgent task. It is also important to develop intravital and low-invasive methods to analyze element content in cattle to regulate its diet during lifetime. In the present work, we have studied the content and distribution of manganese in Hereford cattle from an ecologically clean zone of Western Siberia (Russia). 252 samples were taken from 31 bulls aged 15-18 months. They were collected from various livestock farms in the region and analyzed using atomic absorption spectrophotometry (organs and muscle tissue) and inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectrometry (hair). The median values of manganese concentration obtained in natural moisture for hair, heart, kidneys, liver, lungs, muscles, spleen, testes, and brain were 25, 0.37, 1.0, 2.6, 0.4, 0.2, 0.4, 0.5, and 0.5 ppm. Accordingly, the concentration of manganese differs significantly in the organs and tissues of animals (H = 188.6, df = 8, p <0.0001). Statistically significant associations of manganese were revealed in pairs: liver-testis, hair-testis, spleen-testis, and heart-brain. The classification of organs and tissues of animals according to the level of content and variability of manganese is carried out. The concentration of manganese in the body is not uniform, most of all it is deposited in the hair and excretory organs of the liver and kidneys. In other organs and muscle tissues, the distribution of manganese is more even and is in the range of 0.2-0.5 ppm. The resulting ranges can be used as a guideline for Hereford cattle bred in Western Siberia.

Effects of Trace Mineral Injections on Measures of Growth and Trace Mineral Status of Primiparous Cows and their Calves

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of injectable trace minerals (ITM) administrations at strategic moments in the beef cattle production cycle. At calving, 50 primiparous cows (Angus × Hereford) and their calves were randomly assigned to 1 of 2 treatments: 1) ITM: cattle assigned to the ITM treatment received an ITM injection at calving and a subsequent administration at breeding (cattle over 2 yr: 1.0 mL/90 kg body weight [BW]; calves: 1.0 mL/45 kg BW); or 2) Control: cattle assigned to the control treatment were administered with saline following the same procedure as the cattle assigned to the ITM treatment. Body weight, blood, and liver samples were collected from dams and calves at multiple time points to evaluate the growth and mineral status of cow-calf pairs. All variables were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. A treatment effect (P = 0.02) was observed for Cu liver concentration of primiparous cows at breeding. Cows assigned to ITM treatment had greater Cu status than cohorts assigned to Control treatment. No treatment effects were observed for the mineral status or growth of calves. The administration of ITM to primiparous cows enhanced Cu status when grazing Cu forages scarce of Cu.

Mineral and potentially toxic element profiles in the soil-feed-animal continuum: Implications for public, environmental, and livestock health in three pasture-based sheep farming systems

Grazing livestock derive most of their mineral requirements from foraging. The presence of toxic elements in soils has become a significant concern for food safety and ecosystem services. Understanding the mineral content profiles in soil and forage is crucial for assessing animal health, predicting potential transfers of minerals or heavy metals into the food-chain, and assessing threats to the environment and human health. In this study, Na, Mg, P, K, Ca, Mn, Fe, Co, Cu, Zn, Se, As, Cd, Hg, and Pb were measured to determine the mineral status of three different pasture-based farming systems (with grazing sheep livestock) in a Spanish region of significant economic importance. A risk assessment evaluation of animal, environmental, and human health was performed on soil, forage, feed, serum, milk, and wool. Notably, traces of Pb, and As were identified in pastures in all farms. Our calculation of pollution indices revealed moderate levels of contamination by various elements, including Co, Cu, Zn, Se, As, Cd, Hg, and Pb. The two farms with more intense agrosystem practices showed a significant potential ecological risk, characterized by high soil levels of Hg and Cd. Animals from these farms also had high concentrations of these metals in wool. Although the target Hazard Quotient derived from milk consumption suggests that dairy products from this area are safe for consumption for adults, only milk from a dehesa farm (mix of woodland and pastureland) was free of potential health concerns related to Pb exposure. Our assessment of mineral profiles reveals a cohesive relationship between soil quality and derived animal products, particularly of the Merino sheep breeding and farming system. The results reveal the importance of adopting and reinforcing strategies to preserve dehesas as a sustainable and environmentally friendly agrosystem in the western Mediterranean region.

Selenium Status of Southern Africa

Selenium is an essential trace element that exists in inorganic forms (selenite and selenates) and organic forms (selenoamino acids, seleno peptides, and selenoproteins). Selenium is known to aid in the function of the immune system for populations where human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is endemic, as studies suggest that a lack of selenium is associated with a higher risk of mortality among those with HIV. In a recent study conducted in Zambia, adults had a median plasma selenium concentration of 0.27 μmol/L (IQR 0.14-0.43). Concentrations consistent with deficiency (<0.63 μmol/L) were found in 83% of adults. With these results, it can be clearly seen that selenium levels in Southern Africa should be investigated to ensure the good health of both livestock and humans. The recommended selenium dietary requirement of most domesticated livestock is 0.3 mg Se/kg, and in humans above 19 years, anRDA (recommended daily allowance) of 55 mcg Se/per dayisis recommended, but most of the research findings of Southern African countries have recorded low levels. With research findings showing alarming low levels of selenium in soils, humans, and raw feed materials in Southern Africa, further research will be vital in answering questions on how best to improve the selenium status of Southern African soils and plants for livestock and humans to attain sufficient quantities.

Impact of 48-h water and feed deprivation and hydroxychloride sources of copper and zinc on the metabolism and performance of grazing Nellore cattle during the dry period

Procedures such as transport and marketing can subject animals to water and feed deprivation and impair animal health and performance. Maintaining the mineral status of animals under these conditions can bring benefits to health and performance. The use of hydroxychloride mineral sources can improve mineral status, nutrient digestibility and performance. Two studies were conducted to investigate how the supplementation of 02 trace mineral sources of Cu and Zn and 48-hour water/feed deprivation would affect the performance and metabolism of grass-fed beef cattle. In the first study, 20 castrated and rumen-canulated Nellore steers (BW = 350 ± 132 kg; 20 m) were distributed in individual pens, in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement: supplemental Cu and Zn sources from inorganic vs hydroxychloride (HTM) and 48-hours deprivation (WFD) vs unrestricted (WFU) access to water and feed. The 57d of study was divided into two periods: (1) Adaptation from -21d to -1d and (2) evaluation from 0d to 36d. Interaction between deprivation × period was detected (P < 0.05) for digestibility of DM (DMD), organic matter (OMD), neutral detergent fiber (NDFD), and acid detergent fiber (ADFD). Deprivation increased DMD, OMD, NDFD, and ADFD immediately after the deprivation period (3-5d), but impaired digestibility at longer periods such as 11-13d and 32-34d. DM (DMI) and nutrient intake (P = 0.075), as well as NDFD were higher in HTM. Several ruminal parameters were affected by deprivation: short-chain fatty acids concentration decreased, while rumen pH increased (deprivation × time; P < 0.05); decreased propionate, butyrate and increased isobutyrate, isovalerate, and valerate in WFD (deprivation × time; P < 0.05), respectively. In the second study, eighty-four intact Nellore males (BW = 260 ± 35 kg) were blocked by BW and randomly assigned to Urochloa brizantha cv. Marandu paddocks for 131d in a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement. Liver Cu was higher in WFU/HTM animals (mineral × deprivation; P < 0.05). Interaction between deprivation × period (P < 0.05) was detected for BW and average daily gain (ADG). On 2d and 12d after deprivation, WFD increased ADG and recovered the BW lost. In conclusion, water and feed deprivation imposed in these trials were able to impact several nutrient digestibility and ruminal fermentation parameters in short- and long-term. Performance was not affected by the studied factors. Furthermore, supplementation with sources of Cu and Zn hydroxychloride increased Cu in the liver and tended to increase DMI and NDFD.

Association of rainfall pattern with the disappearance of mineral mixtures fed cattle managed on tropical pastures

The objective of the present study was to evaluate the association between rainfall and the disappearance of mineral mixtures in the supplementation of cattle on pasture. Supplement consumption and rainfall data were obtained from five experiments carried out between 2016 and 2022. The experiments lasted from 84 to 126 days and had 12 to 18 paddocks formed by Brachiaria spp. under grazing by beef cattle (n = 544), receiving mineral supplementation. Supplement disappearance (SD), difference between the amount offered and leftovers (considering intake and losses) and precipitation (PR), was measured over periods of 14 to 21 days. The periods (n = 565) were classified as very dry, dry, normal, rainy, and very rainy, using the Quantis method. The number of rainy days (RD) and the average precipitation per RD (APRD) per period and the average body weight (BW) of the animals in the periods were also determined. Linear regression analyses assessed the association between BW, PR, RD, and APRD. The average PR in the periods studied was 68.5 mm, ranging from 0.00 to 160.3 mm. Each period had up to six RD, with up to 129.5 mm precipitated. The average BW was 270 kg, ranging from 208 to 335 kg and the average SD was 82.2 g/animal/day, ranging from 0.52 to 176.7 g/animal/day. Differences in RD and APRD are consistent across precipitation classes. In the regression analysis, the model with the highest coefficient of determination was the one that contained the linear and quadratic terms for the RD variable. Including linear and quadratic terms of all variables in a multiple regression represented more than half of the variation in the disappearance of the supplement (R2 = 0.5823). There is no clear relationship between the intensity of precipitation, reflected in the form of classes, and the disappearance of supplements offered to cattle on pasture since dry and very rainy periods can be equivalent. However, variables that characterize the precipitation pattern are more relevant than animal live weight to explain existing variations in supplement disappearance. Among them, the frequency with which precipitation occurs (number of rainy days in the period) seems to be more important than the precipitation rate itself, probably because it is related to the volume of precipitation accumulated in the period.

Vitamin and mineral supplementation to beef heifers during gestation: impacts on morphometric measurements of the neonatal calf, vitamin and trace mineral status, blood metabolite and endocrine profiles, and calf organ characteristics at 30 h after birth

To examine the effects of feeding a vitamin and mineral supplement to beef heifers throughout gestation on mineral status and hormone/endocrine profiles in the dam and calf, and morphometric characteristics and organ mass of the calf at 30 h after birth, Angus-based heifers (n = 72, 14 to 15 mo of age, initial body weight [BW] = 380.4 ± 50.56 kg) were estrus synchronized and artificially inseminated (AI) with female-sexed semen. Heifers were blocked by BW and randomly assigned to receive either a basal diet (CON; n = 36) or a basal diet plus a vitamin and mineral supplement (VTM; n = 36) via an individual feeding system beginning at breeding, with both diets targeting BW gains of 0.45 kg heifer-1·d-1. Heifers not pregnant after the first AI (CON, n = 19; VTM, n = 18) were rebred via AI 60 d after treatment initiation, and heifers gestating female fetuses (CON, n = 7; VTM, n = 7) received treatments throughout gestation and were experimental units for this study. Calves were separated from their dams and fed colostrum replacer within 2 h of birth and euthanized 30 h after the first feeding. Calf morphometrics were recorded, and tissues were weighed and sampled. Serum from the dam at calving and serum, liver, and muscle from the calf at 30 h were analyzed for concentrations of minerals. Serum from the dam and calf were analyzed for concentrations of leptin, vitamins A, D, and E, cortisol, growth hormone, and insulin-like growth factor 1. All response variables were analyzed using the MIXED procedure of SAS. Calf body morphometrics and BW of the dam at calving (P ≥ 0.32), calf organ weights (P ≥ 0.21), and calf ovarian follicle counts (P ≥ 0.13) were not affected by maternal treatment. Concentrations of Se and Co in calf serum and Se in calf liver were increased (P ≤ 0.02) in VTM. Serum concentrations of Co and vitamin A in the dam were greater (P ≤ 0.01) in supplemented compared with nonsupplemented dams, and serum concentrations of vitamin D were greater (P ≤ 0.0003) in supplemented dams and calves compared with the nonsupplemented cohort. Maternal supplementation supported vitamin and mineral status in the neonate, yet had no discernable impact on BW, organ mass, or circulating hormones/metabolites in the calf. Evaluating offspring at later postnatal time points is warranted to determine if prenatal vitamin and mineral supplementation affects performance, health, metabolism, and efficiency of energy utilization in key metabolic tissues in the calf.

Supplemental trace minerals as complexed or inorganic sources for beef cattle during the receiving period

To investigate effects of inorganic or complexed trace mineral source (zinc, copper, manganese, and cobalt) on receiving period performance and morbidity, crossbred beef heifer calves (n = 287) arriving on three delivery dates were used in a 42-d receiving trial. Heifers were processed after arrival, stratified by day -1 body weights (BW) and allocated randomly to eight pens (11 to 13 heifers/pen, 24 pens total). Within truckload, pens were assigned randomly to dietary treatment (n = 12 pens/treatment). Heifers were housed on 0.42-ha grass paddocks, provided ad libitum bermudagrass hay and provided dietary treatments in grain supplements fed daily. Treatments consisted of supplemental zinc (360 mg/d), copper (125 mg/d), manganese (200 mg/d), and cobalt (12 mg/d) from complexed (Zinpro Availa 4, Zinpro Corp. Eden Prairie, MN) or inorganic sources (sulfates). Heifers were observed daily for clinical bovine respiratory disease (BRD). If presenting BRD symptoms and rectal temperature ≥ 40 °C, heifers were deemed morbid and treated with antibiotics. Six heifers/pen were bled to determine serum haptoglobin concentrations on days 0, 14, and 28. Liver biopsies were taken on day 5 ± 2 and 43 ± 1 from three calves selected randomly from each pen for mineral status comparisons. Statistical analyses were performed using the MIXED, GLIMMIX, and repeated measures procedures of SAS 9.4 with truckload as a random effect and pen within truckload specified as subject. There tended to be a treatment by day interaction for BW (P = 0.07). Heifer BW did not differ on day 0 (P = 0.82) and day 14 (P = 0.36), but heifers fed complexed trace minerals had greater BW on day 28 (P = 0.04) and day 42 (P = 0.05). Overall average daily gains were greater for heifers fed complexed trace minerals (P = 0.05; 0.78 vs. 0.70 kg, SE = 0.03). Heifers supplemented with inorganic trace minerals had greater BRD incidence (P = 0.03; 58 vs. 46%, SE = 3.6). Haptoglobin concentrations decreased throughout the trial (P < 0.001), and heifers fed complexed trace minerals tended to have a decrease in haptoglobin concentrations (P = 0.07). The source of trace mineral supplementation had no effect (P ≥ 0.20) on liver mineral concentrations and there were no treatment × day interactions (P ≥ 0.35). In conclusion, supplementing diets for the first 42 d after arrival with complexed trace mineral sources improved heifer performance as compared to heifers supplemented with inorganic trace minerals.

Using cattle hair to assess exposure to essential trace elements in volcanic soils

BACKGROUND

In areas where cattle graze outdoors, the environmental availability of trace elements is of utmost importance for an adequate intake. Cattle hair trace elements can be used as exposure biomarkers to assess animal intake and help ensure good nutrition and animal welfare. The aim of this study was to evaluate the environmental exposure to trace elements in cattle grazing outdoors in a volcanic region (São Miguel Island, Azores) and assess the corresponding bioaccumulation factors.

METHODS

Twenty-nine samples of pasture topsoil were collected in two areas of São Miguel with different geological characteristics: Picos fissure system (basaltic area) and Povoação volcano (trachytic area). Hair from fifty-four animals (calves and dairy cows) was collected in two grazing sites: Ponta Delgada (Picos fissure system) and Povoação (Povoação volcano). All samples were analysed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS) after digestion in aqua regia.

RESULTS

Basaltic soils of the Picos fissure system had significantly higher concentrations of most trace elements, except Mo, when compared with the trachytic soils of Povoação volcano. Hair of calves from Povoação showed higher concentrations of most essential trace elements, except Mg, Cu, and Zn, than hair from calves of Ponta Delgada (considered in this study as a control group since they are raised in a barn). On the other hand, hair from dairy cows grazing in Ponta Delgada showed higher concentrations of most essential trace elements, except Mg, As, and Mo, when compared with hair of cows grazing in Povoação.

CONCLUSIONS

Cattle hair trace elements are suitable biomarkers for the assessment of the environmental exposure to trace elements in volcanic soils. The results from dairy cows support the uneven distribution of essential trace elements (and their bioavailability) in the different soils of São Miguel, reinforcing the need to graze animals outdoors from an early age. Such practice (grazing cattle outdoors) provides another means of accessing essential trace elements that complemented with feed can reduce the natural depletion of these essential elements in the body due to reproductive phenomena and milk production.

Trace Mineral Supplementation for Beef Cows: Dry Range Environment

Range mineral supplementation is based on providing trace minerals not adequately provided from grazed forage in meeting beef cattle needs throughout life cycle stages. Supplementation programs should be developed with consideration of ranch production goals, economics, and practicality for implementation. Factors such as season of grazing, forage analysis, water analysis including antagonistic elements, and measured animal responses are used in mineral supplement formulation for range cattle. Mineral intake is a critical factor to a supplement program's success. Salt-based mineral products are most used under range conditions, yet there is much individual intake variation.

Industrial impact on sustainable dairy farms: Essential elements, hazardous metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons in forage and cow's milk

Sustainable dairy farms are characterised by the self-production of forage for animal feed. These farms are sometimes located near industrial areas, entailing a risk of food chain contamination with hazardous metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Accordingly, evaluating the impact of pollution on forage and milk is of great interest. In this study, the effects of industrial factors on sustainable forage from 43 dairy farms and possible correlations between inorganic elements and PAHs were studied. Spearman's correlation and principal component analysis (PCA) were performed for the forage and milk. Most of the inorganic elements in the forage were below the maximum residual limits for cadmium (Cd) and lead (Pb), established in EU 2013/1275 and EU 2019/1869, respectively. However, arsenic (As) and mercury (Hg) levels were above their respective limits in the forage (EU 2019/1869). No milk samples exceeded the maximum residual limits for Pb (EU 488/2014) or Cd (EU 1881/2006) in dairy products. Heavy-weight PAHs (HW-PAHs, four or more aromatic rings) were detected in forage but not in milk. In the forage samples, HW-PAHs were positively correlated with Zn and Cd. In addition, some hazardous metals (chromium (Cr), iron (Fe), As, Hg, and Pb) also were positively correlated with Zn and Cd. Interestingly, no correlations were found between forage pollutants and milk, suggesting that these pollutants have a low transfer rate to milk. The PCA results highlighted the predominant contribution of PAHs to the global variance in forage samples collected at different distances from industrial areas. In milk, the contributions of hazardous metals and PAHs were more balanced than in forages. Finally, when distances to potential pollution sources were included in the PCA of forage samples, a negative correlation was observed between the former and the concentrations of HW-PAHs, Cd, and Zn, suggesting that thermal power plants and steel factory emissions were the main sources of polluting forage in this area.

Powder and agglomerated free-choice minerals for grazing cattle: animal responses and chemical and physical alterations of the mineral mixture

The aim was to evaluate the animal response and the chemical and physical changes of free-choice mineral mixtures fed to grazing cattle. Growing beef cattle were fed either powder (POW) or agglomerated (AGL) mineral mixtures in three different experiments (Exp.), carried out in pastures of Brachiaria grass. In Exp. 1 and 2, the mineral mixtures were disposed in unsheltered troughs (POWun vs. AGLun), being delivered once (D0, Exp.1) or twice (D0 and D8, Exp. 2), throughout 14-day periods. In Exp. 3, POWun and AGLun were additionally compared to POW in sheltered troughs (POWshe), and the mineral mixtures were disposed in D0, throughout 21-day periods. Non-consumed supplement was removed and sampled on D14 (Exp. 1 and 2) or D21 (Exp. 3). Evaluations included average daily body weight gain (ADG), daily disappearance of the supplement (DSD), penetration force of the supplement mass, faecal chemical composition and serum levels of Ca, P and Mg. In Exp. 1, no effects were observed on ADG and faecal mineral concentrations, however, changes in mineral concentrations and a 40% reduction in Na concentration in the supplement were observed, compared to the initial concentration. AGLun had a lower penetration force. In Exp. 2, there were no effects on DSD and faecal mineral concentrations. POWun showed a smaller reduction in Na content compared to AGLun, and AGLun showed lower penetration force. In Exp. 3, the treatments did not affect ADG, but there was a trend towards higher DSD and serum phosphorus (P) concentration for AGLun (p = 0.08). Higher faecal Na concentration was observed for AGLun and higher Na concentration occurred in non-consumed mixture of POWshe. Mineral supplements offered in uncovered troughs showed altered chemical and physical characteristics, with possible effects on supplement intake. However, the general changes are unlikely to alter animal performance.

Evaluation of trace elements in forages and their effect on gastrointestinal parasite burden in grazing sheep

This study was designed to evaluate the trace elements (minerals) in forages fed to sheep and their effect on gastrointestinal parasite burdens. The ultimate objective was to determine the correlation between the burden of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites and the level of trace minerals in sheep serum as a result of the forages they grazed on. A total of 384 faecal samples were collected from sheep in each of the districts (Sialkot and Multan) and examined quantitatively using the McMaster technique. Serum collected from them and plants were pre-treated, and spectrophotometry was used to determine the concentration of trace minerals (Mn, Co, Cu, and Zn). The level of these trace elements differed significantly (P < 0.05) in forages from both districts. In the district of Sialkot, the highest concentrations (mg/Kg) of Zn (38.53 ± 0.16) were found in Cichorium intybus, Cu (41.57 ± 0.07) in Cynodon dactylon, Mn (39.61 ± 0.05) in Parthenium hysterophorus, and Co (1.42 ± 0.03) in Coronopus didymus. In the district of Multan, the highest concentrations (mg/Kg) of Zn (39.43 ± 0.46) were found in Cichorium intybus, Cu (25.76 ± 0.36) in Cynodon dactylon, Mn (34.29 ± 0.53) in Launaea nudicaulis, and Co (1.74 ± 0.08) in Brachiaria raptens. The prevalence of GI parasites in sheep populations in district Sialkot was 34%, while in district Multan, it was 32%. In tehsil Sialkot of district Sialkot, Zn and Cu were significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with eggs per gram (EPG) of faeces, while in tehsil Multan City of district Multan, only Cu was significantly (P < 0.05) correlated with EPG. The potential mechanism behind the role of trace minerals in lowering the burdens of GI parasites requires more investigation. It is recommended that plants with high content of trace minerals should be utilized as part of comprehensive preventive and control strategies against GI parasitism in ruminant animals like sheep.

Impact of Potentially Toxic Compounds in Cow Milk: How Industrial Activities Affect Animal Primary Productions

Potentially toxic elements (PTEs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) frequently coexist in soils near industrial areas and sometimes in environmental compartments directly linked to feed (forage) and food (milk) production. However, the distribution of these pollutants along the dairy farm production chain is unclear. Here, we analyzed soil, forage, and milk samples from 16 livestock farms in Spain: several PTEs and PAHs were quantified. Farms were compared in terms of whether they were close to (<5 km) or far away from (>5 km) industrial areas. The results showed that PTEs and PAHs were enriched in the soils and forages from farms close to industrial areas, but not in the milk. In the soil, the maximum concentrations of PTEs reached 141, 46.1, 3.67, 6.11, and 138 mg kg^-1 for chromium, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead, respectively, while fluoranthene (172.8 µg kg^-1) and benzo(b)fluoranthene (177.4 µg kg^-1) were the most abundant PAHs. Principal component analysis of the soil PTEs suggested common pollution sources for iron, arsenic, and lead. In the forage, the maximum contents of chromium, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead were 32.8, 7.87, 1.31, 0.47, and 7.85 mg kg^-1, respectively. The PAH found in the highest concentration in the feed forage was pyrene (120 µg kg^-1). In the milk, the maximum PTE levels were much lower than in the soil or the feed forages: 74.1, 16.1, 0.12, 0.28, and 2.7 µg kg^-1 for chromium, arsenic, cadmium, mercury, and lead, respectively. Neither of the two milk samples exceeded the 20 µg kg^-1 limit for lead set in EU 1881/2006. Pyrene was the most abundant PAH found in the milk (39.4 µg kg^-1), while high molecular weight PAHs were not detected. For PTEs, the results showed that soil-forage transfer factors were higher than forage-milk ratios. Our results suggest that soils and forages around farms near industries, as well as the milk produced from those farms, have generally low levels of PTE and PAH contaminants.

A Trace Mineral Injection before Joining and Lambing Increases Marking Percentages and Lamb Weights on Diverse Farms in Victoria, Australia

This study was conducted on five commercial farms across Victoria, Australia, between September 2018 and November 2019, where the TM status of ewes was within normal ranges before joining. Mix breed ewes (n = 1484) were randomly allocated to receive either nil treatment (Control) or two injections of an ITM product containing zinc (40 mg/mL), manganese (10 mg/mL), selenium (3 mg/mL), and copper (10 mg/mL); 0.2 mL per 10 kg BW (Multimin® plus Copper for Sheep, Virbac (Australia) Pty Ltd., Milperra, NSW, Australia) 30 days before the start of joining and 30 days before the start of lambing. Approximately 90 days after joining, pregnancy status and conception rate were determined by ultrasound. The marking rate was determined approximately four weeks after the end of lambing, and lamb weights were determined at weaning (12 weeks after the end of lambing). In all farms, ITM treatment did not affect the conception rate. The average conception rate was 156 ± 11.0% (p > 0.05). The marking rate of ITM ewes was 9% higher than control ewes (95% Confidence Interval 3−21%). Lambs born to ITM ewes were 2.31 kg heavier at weaning than lambs born to control ewes (p < 0.001). Although not significant, ewe mortality across farms was 1.3% lower in the ITM group than in the control group. On average, ewes treated with ITM pre-joining and pre-lambing produced more and heavier lambs that represent an extra AU$ 2338 per 100 ewes net benefit for the producer. These results help to understand strategic TM supplementation for animal health, performance and farm profitability beyond the treatment of clinical deficiencies.

Update on copper and selenium in Canadian cow-calf herds: regional differences and estimation of serum reference values

Trace mineral supplementation of beef cattle is essential for efficient reproduction and herd health. Understanding regional differences in cow trace mineral status could inform decisions about risks of deficiencies and supplementation management. Cow-calf surveillance projects provided three opportunities to evaluate the trace mineral status of Canadian beef cow herds. Blood samples were collected at pregnancy testing in 2014 from 102 cow-calf herds and in 2016 from 86 cow-calf herds in Western Canada. In 2019, blood samples were collected at pregnancy testing from cows in 163 cow-calf herds from Eastern and Western Canada. Serum samples were analyzed for copper, selenium, and molybdenum concentrations using a plasma mass spectrometer. The prevalence of copper deficient cows sampled from the Western provinces ranged from 24% to 43% across the three periods, and was 20% from Eastern Canada in 2019. The prevalence of selenium deficient cows ranged from 0.2% to 0.4% across the three projects in Western Canada, but was higher in Eastern Canada at 4.6% in 2019. High serum molybdenum was identified in 9.4% to 14% of cows across the three periods in Western Canada and in 15% of cows sampled in Eastern Canada in 2019. Serum copper, selenium, and molybdenum concentrations varied by cow age and month of sample collection. Serum selenium and molybdenum concentrations, but not copper, varied by soil type associated with the location of the farm. A subsample of samples from cows from Western Canadian herds provided body condition score (BCS) data, pregnancy status, and calf survival data and were used to estimate updated serum reference values for adequate concentrations. Age-specific values were required for selenium and molybdenum. Reference intervals (80%) were estimated from 2,406 pregnant beef cows from 99 herds with each cow having a BCS ≥ 2.5/5 and a live calf at 3 wk with no retained placenta: copper for all cows (0.379 to 0.717 ppm), selenium for cows <4 yr (0.052 to 0.152 ppm), and selenium for cows ≥4 yr (0.064 to 0.184 ppm). Upper 90% reference limits were also estimated for serum molybdenum for cows <4 yr (>0.104 ppm) and cows ≥4 yr (>0.110 ppm). The lower limits for the reference intervals for adequate copper and selenium are below those previously reported; nevertheless, they represent a large sample that was specifically applicable to extensively managed beef animals in western Canada.

Effects of feeding a vitamin and mineral supplement to cow-calf pairs grazing native range

Our objectives were to evaluate the impacts of providing vitamin and mineral (VTM) supplements to cow-calf pairs during the summer grazing period on cow and calf performance and liver concentrations of minerals. During a two-year period, 727 crossbred cows and their calves (initial cow BW = 601.7 ± 48.1 kg; calf BW = 87.8 ± 5.0 kg; n = 381 in year 1, n = 346 in year 2) from the Central Grasslands Research Extension Center (Streeter, N.D.) were blocked by parity (young [parity 1 to 3], and old [parity 4+]) and randomly assigned to pastures at the beginning of the grazing season (16 in year 1 and 14 in year 2). Pastures were assigned to receive a free-choice VTM supplement (SUPP) or no VTM supplement (CON) from pasture turnout to pasture removal (158 and 156 days in year 1 and 2, respectively). Consecutive day weights were taken from cows and calves at pasture turnout and removal and liver biopsies were collected from a subset of cows at both timepoints and from calves at weaning. Cows were bred via AI 37 to 41 d after pasture turnout and by natural service cleanup bulls for a 70 to 80 d breeding season. Calving and weaning data were collected from the calf conceived and gestated during treatments. Data were analyzed for the effect of VTM treatment (SUPP vs. CON), block of parity, and their interaction using the GLM procedure of SAS with pasture as the experimental unit. Year was considered a random effect in the final analysis. Cow pregnancy success was evaluated using the GLIMMIX procedure in SAS with model terms of VTM treatment, parity, and their interaction with year as a random effect. In year 2, cows in differing days postpartum (DPP) groups at pasture turnout (66.1, 48.8, and 34.5 ± 1.04 DPP for EARLY, MID, and LATE groups, respectively) were selected for liver biopsies with cow as the experimental unit. Cow and calf BW and BW change were not impacted (P ≥ 0.20) by VTM access. Pregnancy rate to AI, overall pregnancy rate, gestating calf birth BW and calving distribution were not affected (P ≥ 0.11) by treatment. Liver concentrations of Se, Cu, and Co were greater (P ≤ 0.002) at pasture removal and weaning for cows and suckling calves that had access to VTM. Cows considered EARLY calving had greater (P = 0.05) concentrations of liver Se compared with LATE calving cows. Although VTM supplementation enhanced concentrations of key minerals in the liver of cow-calf pairs, reproductive and growth performance was not affected.

Current Strategies for Selenium and Iodine Biofortification in Crop Plants

Selenium and iodine are essential trace elements for both humans and animals. Among other things, they have an essential role in thyroid function and the production of important hormones by the thyroid gland. Unfortunately, in many areas, soils are deficient in selenium and iodine, and their amount is insufficient to produce crops with adequate contents to cover the recommended daily intake; thus, deficiencies have an endemic character. With the introduction of iodized table salt in the food industry, the thyroid status of the population has improved, but several areas remain iodine deficient. Furthermore, due to the strong relationship between iodine and selenium in metabolic processes, selenium deficiency often compromises the desired positive impact of salt iodization efforts. Therefore, a considerable number of studies have looked for alternative methods for the simultaneous supplementation of selenium and iodine in foodstuff. In most cases, the subject of these studies is crops; recently, meat has also been a subject of interest. This paper reviews the most recent strategies in agriculture to fortify selenium and iodine in crop plants, their effect on the quality of the plant species used, and the potential impact of food processing on their stability in fortified crops.

Trace Minerals Supplementation with Great Impact on Beef Cattle Immunity and Health

Simple Summary

Supplementation with trace minerals (TM) is a husbandry strategy to improve cattle health. There is solid evidence of the beneficial effects of TM supplementation on the immune system. The concentration of TM in the soil is variable across the USA, with several regions having deficient levels in forages. Therefore, TM supplementation is highly recommended especially in areas where forages do not supply the mineral requirements. Before starting TM supplementation, it is important to evaluate the herd’s mineral profile, and the amount of TM the animals are consuming. Oral free-choice TM may not be sufficient to satisfy the requirements in certain situations, and could lead to TM deficiencies. This is due to a high variability in TM composition and intake, binding to undigested feed particles, reduced absorption, and antagonisms. Single, oral pulse-dose supplementation provides a controlled and homogeneous amount of TM intended to remove such a variation. However, this strategy does not efficiently increase circulating and hepatic TM levels. Parenteral TM supplementation has resulted in a more efficient increase in TM concentration. The strategic supplementation combining injectable TM during critical times of cattle management (e.g., vaccination) in conjunction with oral free-choice supplements has shown significant benefits for the immune response and protection against respiratory disease in beef cattle, reducing morbidity and treatment costs.

Abstract

Trace minerals (TM) play an important role in cattle immunity, health and performance. Although TM are needed in small quantities, they are fundamental for enzymes involved in antioxidant protection against cellular damage and several pathways of the immune response. Cattle TM status results from the balance between TM dietary intake and their requirements. Free-choice oral TM supplementation is a common practice in beef cattle production systems. However, there is a high variation in TM intake and thus TM status and bioavailability in animals receiving free-choice oral TM supplements. Strategic pulse-dose supplementation during critical points of beef cattle management provides a controlled amount of TM intended to remove such a variation. Adequate TM supplementation should not only satisfy the basal requirements but also provide a source of TM when there is a higher demand of the antioxidant systems or during the development of the immune response. This paper reviews the research-based evidence of the effects of TM supplementation on immunity and its impact on beef cattle health. This review highlights the benefits of a novel approach of strategic administration of injectable trace minerals (Se, Zn, Cu and Mn) during critical episodes of cattle management (e.g., around weaning or at vaccination) in combination with free-choice oral supplementation to maintain adequate TM and oxidative status, enhanced immunity and overall cattle health. This strategy has proven to decrease morbidity, which would positively impact the productivity of the beef cattle systems.

Trace Elements in Beef Cattle: A Review of the Scientific Approach from One Health Perspective

The objective was to investigate the context, approach and research topics present in the papers that analysed trace elements in beef cattle to identify gaps and scientific perspectives for the sustainable management of trace elements in livestock. The main research groups came from the United States, Spain, Japan, Brazil, India and Slovakia, which represented 31% of the papers produced. Only 37% of studies addressed aspects that integrated animal, environmental and human health. The reviewed papers concerned 56 elements and 15 bovine tissues (Cu, Zn, Pb, liver, muscle and kidney highlighted). The main gaps were (1) lack of research in developing countries, (2) the need to understand the impact of different environmental issues and their relationship to the conditions in which animals are raised, and (3) the need to understand the role of many trace elements in animal nutrition and their relationship to environmental and human health. Finally, we highlight possible ways to expand knowledge and provide innovations for broad emerging issues, primarily through expanding collaborative research networks. In this context, we suggest the adoption of the One Health approach for planning further research on trace elements in livestock. Moreover, the One Health approach should also be considered for managers and politicians for a sustainable environmental care and food safety.

Ruminant Lick Blocks, Particularly in China: A Review

A lick block (LB) is a solidified mixture of molasses, urea, minerals, filler, coagulant and binder that is supplemented to livestock mainly in relatively extensive rearing systems. It provides nutrients, such as soluble sugars, proteins, minerals and vitamins to balance dietary intake and can improve rumen fermentation and facilitate digestion and absorption of nutrients. These supplements improve livestock production, reproduction and carcass quality. In addition, LB can partially replace concentrate, serve as a delivery vehicle for additives such as enzymes and drugs and mediate the distribution of grazing livestock. This paper classifies and analyzes representative research; discusses the types, ingredients and current status of the utilization of LB; and systematically reviews the processing technology, quality assessment, influencing factors of intake, action mechanism and application. This review can provide a basis for the development, popularization and application of novel LB products.