Selko IntelliBond®: Proven benefits for health, fertility, and milk production
- Ruminants
The transition period remains the greatest challenge on dairy farms. New research results show that not only the amount, but especially the form of trace minerals plays an important role in supporting cow health and performance
Selko IntelliBond®: small change, big impact
For many dairy farmers, the transition period is the time when the difference is made. It is precisely then that a cow must get off to a smooth start, produce sufficient colostrum and recover quickly after calving. New research findings show that it is not only the quantity of trace elements that matters, but above all the form in which they are supplied.
Two recent studies in the Journal of Dairy Science investigated what happens when sulphate sources of copper, zinc and manganese are replaced by Selko IntelliBond®. The outcome is clear: cows recover more strongly, remain healthier and perform better.
A stronger start after calving
In the study, cows given Selko IntelliBond® showed a significantly better start to lactation:
- higher colostrum production
- an average of +1.3 kg of milk per day and
- +1.5 kg of energy-corrected milk (ECM).
It is striking that this additional production was achieved without any change in feed intake or energy balance. In other words: better results from the same ration.
Fewer problems during the most vulnerable period
The greatest impact was observed around calving. Cows experienced fewer problems after calving, including fewer cases of retained placenta and fewer uterine infections. The results also indicated a faster recovery and lower levels of inflammation.
That is exactly what it’s all about in practice: fewer treatments, fewer setbacks and greater peace of mind during a period when every cow counts.
Greater control over fertility and longevity
The results were also positive in terms of fertility. The likelihood of pregnancy increased and the cows appeared better prepared for the period around insemination. A cow that comes through the transition healthier simply has a better chance of becoming pregnant again and continuing to contribute to the herd without problems for longer.
Why the form of trace elements matters
The form of trace elements determines how stable they remain in feed, premix and the rumen. Selko IntelliBond® is a hydroxy trace element source with low solubility at neutral pH. This results in fewer undesirable interactions and ensures that more minerals remain available where the cow needs them. Read more about IntelliBond® here – information page
What are the benefits?
The research results are also economically significant. A simple practical calculation illustrates this:
Additional milk yield: at +1.3 kg of milk per day and a milk price of €0.45/kg, this amounts to approximately €0.58 per cow per day. Over the first 100 days, that is approximately €58 per cow.
On top of that, there are potential additional benefits in the form of fewer treatments, improved fertility and reduced wastage. The ultimate added value naturally depends on the price of milk, health status and the farm’s circumstances.
Indicative potential added value:
€75–150+ per cow per lactation
(indicative, depending on milk price and farm circumstances)
Which farms would benefit from this?
Replacing traditional sulphate sources with Selko IntelliBond® is particularly of interest to dairy farms that:
• wish to reduce calving-related problems,
• want to improve pregnancy rates
• aim for a long productive life
• aim for better feed conversion
• wish to optimise milk production in the first 100 days, and
• achieve a lower carbon footprint.
Suitable for both conventional and organic farms (Cu and Zn), via the mineral supplement.
In summary
The latest research shows that trace elements do not need to be a standard component of the ration. The right source can make a noticeable contribution to:
a healthier transition, improved fertility and higher milk yield from the same ration.
This makes Selko IntelliBond® a practical step for dairy farmers who want to get more out of mineral feeding whilst also working towards stronger, more sustainable cows.
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