Topics:
Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher
Inclusion Rate of Mineral Mixture
Mineral mixture (or) salt is added to ruminant diet @ ______% of concentrate.
- 0.5
- 1 — Correct Answer
- 2
- 5
Explanation:
Correct Answer: 1%
Mineral mixture (or common salt) should be added to ruminant diets at 1% of the concentrate mixture. This level ensures adequate supply of macro and micro minerals without causing mineral imbalances or palatability issues.
Mineral and Additive Inclusion Guidelines
| Additive | Inclusion Level | Context |
|---|---|---|
| Mineral mixture / Salt | 1% of concentrate | Ruminant diets (standard) |
| Urea | Up to 3% of concentrate | NPN supplement for ruminants |
| Urea | 1% of total DM ration | Ration-level inclusion |
| Urea (straw treatment) | 4% of straw DM | Straw treatment |
| Molasses | 3–3.5% in silage | Fermentation aid |
Why 1% is the Standard Level
- BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) specifies salt + mineral mix at ~1% of compound feed.
- Below 1%: risk of macro-mineral deficiencies (Ca, P, Na, Mg).
- Above 1–2%: excess salt reduces palatability and may cause Na toxicity (salt poisoning) especially in water-restricted conditions.
Why Other Options Are Wrong
- 0.5% → used for salt addition specifically during silage making (not as mineral mix rate in concentrate).
- 2% → above recommended level; risks palatability reduction and possible toxicity.
- 5% → far too high; would cause salt/mineral toxicity.
📚 About this Topic — Animal Nutrition
This multiple choice question is from Animal Nutrition, Animal Refresher. It has 4 options with a detailed explanation of the correct answer. Practice more MCQs from Animal Nutrition to strengthen your preparation.
