Calcium sulfate, commonly known as gypsum, is a mineral with two forms: dihydrate (CaSO₄·2H₂O) and anhydrous (CaSO₄). Traditionally, it has been widely used in the construction industry, where raw gypsum is calcined into either semi-hydrated or anhydrous forms. When mixed with water, it becomes a gel-like material suitable for various applications. However, recent research has revealed its significant potential in the animal husbandry sector, particularly as a feed additive.
In the feed industry, calcium sulfate serves as a source of both calcium and sulfur, which are essential nutrients for animals. During critical growth phases such as egg-laying, moulting, or when long-haired animals are growing, calcium demand increases. Ensuring adequate calcium intake can enhance growth and overall health. Additionally, as an inorganic sulfur source, it helps reduce the need for protein-based sulfur supplements. Beyond nutrition, calcium sulfate also plays a role in disease prevention, supporting immune function and reducing stress-related issues.
When used in feed, calcium sulfate dihydrate (gypsum) is typically preferred, while calcium sulfate hemihydrate (plaster gypsum) is more suitable for fish feed due to its binding properties. Its application spans across different animal types:
1. **Poultry**: Adding 1–1.5% gypsum powder to laying hens' diet can increase egg production by over 12%. It also accelerates feather regrowth during moulting.
2. **Rabbits**: Feeding 0.5 g of gypsum per day improves fur quality and quantity, elevating hair grade from third to second.
3. **Piglets**: Incorporating 1.5% gypsum in their diet can boost weight gain and improve feed efficiency.
4. **Aquaculture**: Gypsum is used as a binder in fish feed and helps control ammonia levels in aquaculture environments, offering cost-effective and eco-friendly benefits.
5. **Other Breeding Practices**: It can be added to chicken manure feed, but care must be taken to avoid interactions with antibiotics and other additives.
In terms of disease prevention, calcium sulfate has proven effective in managing conditions like infectious bursal disease, feather pecking, and cage fatigue. It also helps reduce heat stress in poultry during hot seasons. However, it should not be used alongside tetracycline antibiotics, as it may interfere with absorption.
According to China’s Ministry of Agriculture, calcium sulfate is officially recognized as a feed additive, serving as a binder, anti-caking agent, and stabilizer. While natural gypsum is safe, industrial by-products like desulfurization or phosphogypsum contain heavy metals that pose risks to both animals and humans. These should be strictly avoided.
With rising concerns about food safety and the overuse of antibiotics, there's a growing interest in natural and safe alternatives. Calcium sulfate, being a naturally occurring mineral, offers a promising solution. Its low toxicity and long history of use make it a valuable asset in modern livestock and aquaculture practices. Further research and standardization will help expand its application, ensuring safer and more sustainable feeding solutions for animals worldwide.
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