This module focuses on the role of salt and trace minerals in raising poultry, livestock and other animals. Its objective is to make students aware of the importance salt plays in animal nutrition and why it is so important in raising healthy animals. Background Approximately 1.7 million tons of salt are used for agricultural purposes each year. Virtually all this salt goes into animal diets, either in commercially mixed feeds or in loose or block form. Animals' need for salt varies, although research has established minimum salt requirements for each type of animal.
Animals consume salt in a narrow and predictable range.
This fact, well-understood by poultry and livestock producers, lets them use salt in many ways to assure maximum animal growth, reproduction and profitability. Discuss the health problems which might occur if animals are not given the proper amount of salt in their diets. After watching the video, have each student submit two questions along with the answers based on the video. This should include questions about trace minerals in agricultural salt, and the health effects of too little salt or other essential minerals. Have each student write a one page report on a health problem which might occur if an animal does not eat the correct amount of salt and trace minerals.