Trouw Nutrition launches model to tackle trace mineral overload in dairy cows

NETHERLANDS – Trouw Nutrition has unveiled a precision nutrition model designed to curb trace mineral overload in dairy cows, a growing concern for animal health, farm economics, and environmental sustainability. 

The model, developed by the company’s research and development (R&D) team, was inspired by findings that over-supplementation of trace minerals, particularly copper, is a widespread problem in dairy production.

While meeting a cow’s mineral requirements is critical, studies show that over-supplementation is more common than underfeeding. 

Data from 139 herds in California and eastern Canada revealed that average copper levels in dairy diets were 70%–80% above the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) recommendation of 10 parts per million (ppm) for a lactating cow producing 32 kg of milk daily.

Excess copper can pose severe toxicity risks. The upper limit to avoid toxicity in dairy cows is 500 mg, yet a Michigan study found that 44% of liver samples exceeded this threshold, with 12% surpassing 850 ppm dry matter. 

Similar studies in the Netherlands and the UK also revealed dangerous copper levels in a significant proportion of cows.

High copper concentrations have been linked to reduced conception rates and more breeding attempts per pregnancy. 

Beyond animal health, excess minerals in feed can lead to elevated trace metal loads in manure and urine, undermining environmental sustainability. Over-supplementation also drives up feed costs without improving productivity.

A model for responsible supplementation

According to Trouw Nutrition, the primary cause of over-supplementation is failing to account for the trace minerals already present in forages and byproducts within the basal ration. 

The company’s new model uses data from 5,000 dairy cow diets to calculate the contribution of the basal ration to mineral requirements. Analysis shows that the basal diet typically supplies 50% of a cow’s copper needs, 32% of its zinc needs, and 68% of its manganese needs.

By factoring in these contributions alongside maximum tolerance values, dairy producers and nutritionists can reduce the risk of toxicity, protect the environment, and save on feed expenses. The model also encourages the use of more bioavailable trace minerals to ensure that cows absorb the nutrients rather than store them in tissues or excrete them into the environment.

Aligning with sustainability goals

Gavin Boerboom, Global Category Director, Trace Minerals at Trouw Nutrition, noted that sustainable mineral management aligns with growing pressures on dairy farmers. 

“Around the world, dairy producers are under pressure from regulatory bodies and consumers to produce more sustainably and prioritise animal welfare,” he said. 

“Responsibly supplementing the proper level of trace minerals can ensure cows’ mineral needs are met while reducing mineral excretion in the environment and avoiding unnecessary feed costs.”

With this model, Trouw Nutrition positions itself at the forefront of precision nutrition solutions that address both the biological needs of dairy cattle and the broader environmental and economic impacts of feed practices.

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