Zeolite in Cattle Farming
Cattle farming is a demanding task that entails a myriad of decisions every day. The type of housing and feed, as well as the health status and nutritional intake of the cattle, have a significant impact on their meat and milk quality and, consequently, on the livelihood of local farmers. A volcanic mineral, zeolite, has become the rising star of local agriculture due to its positive and versatile effects. We have taken a closer look at the origin, mode of action, and application of this volcanic mineral…
Zeolite as bedding for cubicles … fewer purulent infections and Mortellaro
Originally discovered by the Romans, the naturally pure volcanic rock zeolite and its positive effects on humans, animals, and soil have long been known. However, it is only in recent years that studies have proven the true extent of its positive effects, e.g., for livestock farming.
Today, zeolite is used in agricultural practice in two ways: as a powder, it is spread in the cubicles of cows and calves, ensuring a dry and non-slip floor climate that has positive effects on purulent infections and Mortellaro. In addition, the porous surface of the mineral binds large amounts of ammonia, thus having a favorable influence on odor development in the barn.
Zeolite as a feed additive to promote digestion - improves milk yield
When the volcanic rock—with its particularly high silicon content—is sprinkled over feed, it shows completely different effects, as a 2011 study on dairy cows and calves at the University of Leipzig shows*: Zeolite acts as a "molecular sieve" in the digestive tract, binding free radicals and ammonia, improving milk yield in cows, and having a positive effect on nutrient utilization and the general condition of cattle.*
In the gastrointestinal tract, excess acids, pollutants, and pathogens are absorbed by the powdered zeolite and ultimately excreted. In addition, important ions such as sodium, magnesium, calcium, or potassium are released into the animal's body.
But that is not all: "When applied externally as a wound powder or cream, zeolite can also be used to treat cuts, fistulas, eczema, or ulcers. Thanks to its hydrophilic effect, zeolite is decongestant, analgesic, and antibacterial," says Michaela Schirmbrand-Pfeiffer, Managing Director of the company Steinkraft, which has been producing natural products based on zeolite rock for agriculture for years.
Zeolite as liquid manure enhancement - good for the soil, good for the natural cycle
Since particularly high-quality clinoptilolite zeolite is of 100 percent natural origin and is not supplemented with any additives by high-quality suppliers, the mineral volcanic rock supports not only animals but the entire natural cycle: By using zeolite-containing cow manure, liquid manure is enhanced and ensures more fertile soil and stronger root formation in the fields. The ammonia in the cow manure is bound by the zeolite in the soil, preventing it from volatilizing, which means it is fully available to plants as a nutrient. Because of its extensive effects, the volcanic rock is also used successfully in pig or poultry farming.
Article published in the magazine Fleisch & Co, issue 2/2020
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