Trace elements in animal nutrition
Trace elements are essential nutrients required in small quantity but critical for growth, reproduction, immunity, metabolism, skeletal development and overall animal performance. Imbalances of these trace elements can significantly affect productivity, health and feed efficiency.
The technology CAPMAG® was developed through 6 years of research, then patented in 2022. This innovation is based on the physical protection of trace elements by magnesium in order to adapt their solubilization kinetics though gastrointestinal tract and thus increase their bioavailability.
Zinc
Zinc is the most important trace element in animal nutrition. This mineral is involved in hundreds of enzymatic reactions and the regulation of gene expression. Zinc plays a central role on growth, tissue development, immune function and the maintenance of gut integrity. Adequate zinc supply is particularly critical in young piglets, which experience considerable physiological and environmental stress after weaning, making supplementation necessary to support intestinal integrity, immune function, and optimal growth performance.
CAPMAG®Zn’s effectiveness lies in the protection of zinc by magnesium which optimizes the solubilization kinetics of zinc. Thank to this technology, the release of zinc is gradual and maximum in the last phase of the stomach. This delayed solubilization avoids the formation of complexes between zinc and anti-nutritional factors such as phytates, making it impossible to cover the requirements optimally.
Copper
Copper is an essential trace mineral involved in iron metabolism, red blood cell formation, energy production and antioxidant defense. It acts as a cofactor for several enzymes, including cytochrome c oxidase, Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase and lysyl oxidase, which support cellular respiration, oxidative protection and connective tissue formation. Copper also contributes to immune function, pigmentation, skeletal development and reproductive performance.
Copper requirements are particularly important in ruminants, which are highly susceptible to copper deficiency due to dietary interactions with molybdenum and sulfur, making adequate supplementation essential to support immune function, fertility, growth, and overall productivity.