Mineral Requirements for Growing Swine

Abstract

Swine producers have known for years that minerals must be supplied in swine rations for optimum performance. About 5 percent of the total body weight of swine consists of mineral elements. These elements are essential for most of the basic metabolic reactions in the body. They have a role in digestion; metabolism of protein, fats, and carbohydrates; and the structure of chromosomes, enzymes, nerves, blood, skeleton, hair and milk. They are also an important factor in reproduction, growth, production, and resistance to parasites and diseases.