The fifth edition of this important book reviews the recent advances in livestock mineral nutrition, updated throughout with new illustrations and references to reflect the growing complexity of mineral metabolism. Covering increasing the “mineral value” of feeds by the use of additives, the concept of the “mineral footprint” of livestock production and methods of mineral feeding that lower environmental pollution, it also highlights new developments, such as:
- salt tolerance and optimizing production in salt-rich environments;
- the use of near-infra red (NIR) methodology to monitor phytate P in diets;
- acid-base balance in dairy cows;
- the use of new slow-release vitamin injections; and
- new cell culture techniques for assessing bioavailability.
Following a clear and easy to reference structure, the book also considers potential pitfalls where they occur, such as misleading estimates of mineral requirements for growth and incorrect use of previous biochemical criteria. An essential resource for researchers and students in animal nutrition, agriculture and veterinary medicine, this book also forms a useful reference for those concerned with human nutrition and environmental protection.
