The Role of CaCO₃ in Animal Feed: A Safe and Cost-Effective Calcium Source

Discover why Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃) is a widely trusted, safe, and cost-effective source of calcium in animal feed. Learn about its nutritional benefits, safety profile, and regulatory compliance in livestock nutrition.

In modern animal nutrition, providing adequate minerals is crucial for optimal growth, reproduction, and productivity. Among various calcium sources, Calcium Carbonate (CaCO₃) stands out due to its high calcium content, affordability, and safety. Used across livestock, poultry, aquaculture, and pet feed, CaCO₃ is a staple ingredient in feed formulations worldwide.


Nutritional Benefits of CaCO₃ in Animal Feed

1. Rich and Readily Available Calcium Source

CaCO₃ contains approximately 38–40% elemental calcium, making it one of the richest and most economical sources of calcium in animal diets. Calcium is essential for:

  • Bone and teeth development in livestock and poultry.

  • Muscle contraction and nerve function.

  • Eggshell formation in laying hens.

  • Reproductive performance in breeding animals.

  • Blood clotting and enzyme activation.

Deficiency in calcium can lead to problems like rickets, poor growth, weak bones, and low egg production. CaCO₃ helps prevent these issues efficiently.

2. Maintains Calcium-to-Phosphorus Balance

Balancing the Ca:P ratio in feed is essential for nutrient absorption and skeletal health. CaCO₃ is often used alongside phosphorus sources like DCP (Dicalcium Phosphate) to achieve the optimal balance and improve feed efficiency.

3. Supports Digestive Health and Growth

In poultry and fish diets, finely ground CaCO₃ helps stabilize gut pH, particularly in young animals. A stable intestinal environment improves enzyme activity, digestion, and nutrient absorption, ultimately enhancing feed conversion and growth rates.


Safety and Purity of CaCO₃ in Feed Applications

1. Natural and Non-toxic

CaCO₃ used in animal feed is derived from high-purity limestone deposits, free from harmful contaminants and heavy metals. It undergoes quality control processes such as:

  • Mechanical grinding and sieving.

  • Washing and removal of impurities.

  • Optional sterilization or heat treatment.

This ensures the material is non-toxic, biologically safe, and environmentally friendly.

2. No Drug Residues or Synthetic Additives

Unlike some synthetic additives, CaCO₃ is not a growth promoter or antibiotic. Its inclusion in feed does not lead to residue accumulation in meat, milk, or eggs—making it suitable for organic and antibiotic-free farming systems.

3. Excellent Shelf Life and Stability

CaCO₃ is non-hygroscopic and chemically stable, allowing for long storage without spoilage. It can be stored in standard warehouse conditions without requiring special packaging or climate control.


Regulatory Compliance and Quality Standards

1. Meets International and Local Feed Standards

CaCO₃ for feed use is required to meet strict regulations and certifications, such as:

  • Vietnamese Feed Additive Standards (TCVN).

  • EU Feed Additive Regulations (Regulation EC No 1831/2003).

  • Codex Alimentarius Guidelines by FAO/WHO.

  • ISO 22000, GMP+, HACCP, depending on the manufacturing process.

Using compliant CaCO₃ ensures the feed producer can safely market their products both domestically and internationally.img-1923(2)

2. Compatible with Feed Formulation Systems

CaCO₃ is available in multiple particle sizes (e.g., 60, 120, 250 microns), making it ideal for:

  • Pelletized feeds.

  • Mash feeds.

  • Premixes and mineral blocks.

It mixes easily with other ingredients and maintains uniformity throughout the feed batch.


Why Choose CaCO₃? A Cost-Efficient Solution

Compared to other calcium sources such as:

  • Bone meal (higher risk of contamination),

  • Shell powder (inconsistent quality),

  • Calcium lactate or gluconate (expensive),

CaCO₃ offers the best value for money. Its low cost and high calcium content make it the preferred option for:

  • Feed mills.

  • Commercial livestock farms.

  • Aquaculture operations.

  • Pet food manufacturers.

It allows producers to reduce input costs while maintaining or improving nutritional outcomes.

📧 Contact our Sales Manager: salesmanager@tankymineral.com.vn
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