What is PhosSure 12 and How Does it Work?
PhosSure 12 is a phosphate-trace mineral concentrate developed by Yara Animal Nutrition to provide essential nutrients to grazing livestock. The product is particularly renowned for its unique weather-resistant formula, which was created specifically to combat mineral lick losses in high-rainfall areas. The core of the product's effectiveness lies in its composition and functionality. It is formulated by blending high-quality mono dicalcium phosphate (MDCP) with a spray-dried molasses by-product, feed lime, and a precise mix of essential trace minerals.
When exposed to moisture, the product forms a hard but brittle protective crust on its surface. This crust acts as a barrier, preventing rain from damaging or leaching the mineral supplement beneath it. The animals can easily break through this protective layer to access the dry, palatable lick underneath, ensuring they receive the necessary supplementation without interruption. The inclusion of the molasses by-product also serves to enhance the palatability of the lick, encouraging consistent intake, which is crucial for addressing nutritional deficiencies effectively.
Key Benefits for Livestock Performance
Optimized Phosphorus and Trace Mineral Intake
One of the primary advantages of PhosSure 12 is its role in ensuring consistent and high intake of phosphorus (P) and other essential trace minerals. Phosphorus is vital for numerous biological functions in ruminants, including energy metabolism, bone formation, and reproduction. In many parts of the world, natural grazing pastures are acutely P-deficient, leading to poor animal performance. By providing a highly bioavailable source of phosphate (derived from Kynofos 21), PhosSure 12 helps to replenish the body's phosphorus reserves, which are often depleted on poor-quality grazing. This corrects imbalances and supports overall physiological health.
Enhanced Reproductive Rates
For farmers, reproductive efficiency is a major determinant of profitability. A significant benefit of using PhosSure 12 is the notable improvement in livestock fertility. Phosphorous deficiency is directly linked to poor reproductive rates in breeding cows and ewes. The supplement's balanced formulation, which includes elevated levels of critical trace minerals like copper, zinc, and selenium, provides the nutritional support required for optimal fertility and reproductive cycles. By maintaining proper body condition and supporting reproductive health, PhosSure 12 can lead to higher conception percentages and overall herd productivity.
Improved Growth and Development
For growing and developing animals, consistent mineral intake is foundational for strong skeletal development. PhosSure 12 improves overall growth and bone formation, particularly in young stock. The readily available phosphorus and calcium from the mono dicalcium phosphate base, combined with trace minerals, provide the building blocks necessary for healthy skeletal growth. This benefit is particularly important for animals grazing on mineral-poor pastures, where natural sources of these nutrients are insufficient.
Prevention of Lick Losses in High Rainfall
Perhaps the most distinctive advantage of PhosSure 12 over standard mineral licks is its weather resistance. In regions with seasonal or heavy rainfall, traditional supplements can become wet, unpalatable, and susceptible to mould, leading to significant product loss. The unique formulation that creates a protective crust when wet eliminates this problem, ensuring the lick remains dry and available for consumption. This translates to a more consistent and reliable nutrient delivery system and reduces waste, saving farmers money in the long run.
Comparison: PhosSure 12 vs. Other Phosphate Licks
| Feature | PhosSure 12 | Standard Phosphate Lick (Non-Weatherproof) |
|---|---|---|
| Weather Resistance | Excellent (forms a protective crust) | Poor (susceptible to rain damage and leaching) |
| Palatability | High (enhanced by molasses by-product) | Variable (can become unpalatable when wet or mouldy) |
| Nutrient Bioavailability | High (derived from high-quality Mono Dicalcium Phosphate) | Varies significantly depending on source and processing |
| Year-Round Usage | Ideal for all seasons, especially high-rainfall periods | Limited in rainy seasons due to risk of waste |
| Cost-Effectiveness | Higher upfront cost, but less waste means greater value | Lower upfront cost, but potential for significant waste and inconsistent results |
| Specialty Minerals | Increased levels of key trace minerals (Cu, Zn, Mn, I, Se) | Standardized levels of minerals, may not address specific deficiencies |
Conclusion
PhosSure 12 stands out as a superior animal nutrition supplement, offering more than just a simple source of phosphate. Its unique, weather-resistant properties guarantee consistent, uninterrupted mineral intake, which is a critical advantage for livestock in high-rainfall areas. By providing a highly bioavailable source of phosphorus and a balanced blend of essential trace minerals, PhosSure 12 drives significant improvements in livestock performance. These enhancements include improved reproductive rates, stronger growth and skeletal development, and increased overall health. The product's enhanced palatability further ensures that animals consume the supplement readily. While it may represent a higher initial investment compared to traditional mineral licks, the prevention of product loss and the tangible increases in animal production and profitability make PhosSure 12 a highly cost-effective nutritional strategy for modern farming enterprises.
