Effect of a Customized Mineral Supplement on Nutrient Metabolism, Serum Mineral Profile and Growth Performance of Kids

The study was carried out to examine the effects of a customized mineral mixture (Boostermin) supplementation on nutrient metabolism, serum minerals profile and growth performance of kids. Eighteen kids of about 6 months age with mean BW of 10.70±0.67 kg were randomly divided into 3 groups consisting of 6 kids each in a completely randomized block design. The kids were randomly allocated to control (CON), CMS and BMS groups. In CON group kids were offered a concentrate mixture without any mineral supplement; however, kids in CMS and BMS groups were given concentrate mixture having commercial-and Boostermin-mineral supplement, respectively. The feeding-cum-growth trial lasted for a period of 135d. The daily DM intake did not differ significantly (P>0.05) among the treatment groups. Digestibility coefficientsfor DM, OM, EE, NDF and ADF did not differ (P>0.05) among the three groups; however, digestibility of CP was significantly higher (P<0.05) in BMS than CON. The balances of Ca and P were significantly (P<0.01) higher in BMS and CMS as compared to CON. The DCP intake was improved (P<0.01) in BMS as compared to CON, however, TDN intake did not differ (P>0.05) among the treatment groups. The serum minerals profile viz. Ca, P, Zn, Cu, Mn and iron were significantly higher in mineral supplemented groups, however, BMS was found to be better. The average daily gain for the period of 135 d were significantly (P<0.01) higher in BMS as compared to CON. It is concluded that Boostermin supplementation significantly improved the performance of growing kids.