Minerals serve a variety of structural and metabolic functions in swine and are found in all body components, including bone, muscle, internal organs, blood, and other tissues and fluids of the body. Calcium is an important nutrient in the swine diet, which is required in large amounts. It aids skeletal development, muscle contraction, nerve function, and metabolic regulation. Most commonly used calcium sources are calcium carbonate and dicalcium phosphate, but their content of digestible calcium is variable, resulting in variable absorption. There has been evidence that alternative natural sources of calcium improve calcium digestibility and utilization. Additionally, research on grower and finisher pigs suggests that having the appropriate Ca/P ratio greatly improves feed intake, growth, and mineral metabolism.
Calcium–Phosphorus Balance:
The Ca:P ratio is critical in swine nutrition. While pigs need both minerals, too much calcium can bind phosphorus in the intestine, lowering its absorption. The ideal calcium (Ca) to phosphorus (P) ratio in swine diets is crucial for growth and bone development, with the optimal ratio generally ranging from 1.1:1 to 1.4:1, and can vary by age and weight class. Studies show that when the Ca:P ratio exceeds 1.5:1, phosphorus digestibility may fall by 15–20%, directly affecting growth and feed efficiency. Optimizing this balance with swine calcium absorption natural source solutions ensures efficient mineral utilization.
The Hidden Dangers of Poor Calcium Absorption
Dysfunctional calcium absorption has adverse effects on pig performance. Deficiency in calcium supply compromises bone formation, hoof durability, and immune and metabolic processes. Impaired calcium-phosphorus balance upsets nutrient absorption and may decrease feed efficiency. New research indicates that adequate calcium levels not only enhance mineral balance but also feed morphology and gene expression of calcium transporters in pigs. In contrast, excessive intake of dietary calcium derived from poor-quality sources can crystallize with fatty acids that inhibit fat absorption. These problems highlight the necessity of having very bioavailable and balanced calcium supplementation.
Why Traditional Calcium Sources Are Falling Short?
Historically, calcium absorptive problems are managed through augmented supplementation from inorganic forms such as limestone or phosphates, vitamin D analogues, or reconstitution of food ratios. These methods, though, have definite disadvantages. Inorganic calcium tends to be more variable in solubility and digestibility, while oversupplementation minimizes phosphorus uptake and leads to waste in the environment. Financial inefficiency and unacceptable long-term sustainability also constrain these methods.
The Rise of Organic Calcium
Organic calcium is bound to organic molecules, which makes it easier for the body to recognize and absorb. Studies have shown that calcium from organic sources like algae and marine minerals shows bioavailability up to 90 to 95%, which is significantly higher than inorganic sources like calcium carbonate. Absorbed calcium goes directly into supporting skeletal development, muscle function, and even metabolic processes, and leaves less waste behind. As more farmers turn towards sustainable and natural solutions, organic calcium stands out as a smart choice that promotes not only animal welfare but also farm profitability.
CALSOW PLUS
CALSOW PLUS is a perfect combination of organic calcium supplements for a quick and long-lasting effect, enhanced with organic sources of calcium, to prevent and treat a decline in milk production in swine. With its high bioavailability, organic calcium meets the needs of pigs across all life stages, supporting growth, skeletal health, and reproductive function more effectively than inorganic options. It also provides the benefits of added glucogenic precursors to prevent energy imbalance during pregnancy and lactation.
BENEFITS:
- Ensures higher bioavailability
- Enhances milk production
- Improves bone development
- Strengthens the immune system
- Maintains better growth
- Improves general health