Ferrous Sulfate

General Information

A supplemental source of iron (ferrous), it is much more available to biological processes than ferric oxide which is used by many commerical mineral mixes to give them the traditional red appearance.

Why is it in my feed?

Iron is an essential component in the structure of proteins involved in transportation and utilization of oxygen. Examples include hemoglobin, myoglobin, cytochromes, and iron-sulfur proteins involved in the electron transport chain. Additionally, as with many other trace minerals, several enzymes either contain or are activated by iron.

While iron deficiency is unlikely in most cattle due to the amount of iron in other sources of forage, heavy parasite infestations or other diseases causing chronic blood loss can lead to an iron deficiency.

Large intake of iron could also hamper in the absorption of manganese.