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The harm of trace elements in pig feed to pigs
At present, the feed industry faces several significant challenges, including the presence of heavy metals in some raw materials that often fail to meet hygiene standards. One of the main issues is the excessive addition of inorganic salts of copper, iron, and zinc in feed formulations, which has become a widespread practice.
In pig feed, high levels of copper—typically ranging from 125 to 250 mg/kg—have been used not only for growth promotion but also to enhance the pig's appearance by making their skin redder and their feces darker, which can improve the market value of the animals. This has become a key factor influencing farmers' purchasing decisions, as they often prioritize the visual appeal of the pigs over long-term health considerations.
To meet these expectations, many feed companies have continued to increase copper levels, with some products containing amounts that reach or even exceed the minimum toxic thresholds for pigs. This raises serious concerns about the safety and sustainability of such practices.
Studies show that when copper is added at 100–125 mg/kg, liver copper levels can increase by up to 23 times. At 250 mg/kg, this increases by 10 times, and at 500 mg/kg, liver copper levels can reach as high as 1500 mg/kg. Such excessive accumulation can impair liver function, reduce hemoglobin (Hb) levels, and lower hematocrit values. Consuming pork liver from these animals may lead to symptoms like anemia and jaundice in humans.
In addition to copper, the use of other minerals like zinc and iron has also increased. For example, many companies now add 2000–3000 mg/kg of zinc oxide to piglet feed to prevent diarrhea. However, the use of high levels of zinc and iron can cause similar health issues, including gastrointestinal distress and potential toxicity, raising further concerns about the long-term effects on both animals and consumers.