New form of zinc available for EU market
After Orffa’s successful EU introduction of IntelliBond C (hydroxy copper), the EU has now also approved IntelliBond Z (hydroxy zinc) for the European market.
IntelliBond Z is a completely new form of zinc, which is available for animal nutrition in Europe from November 15 onwards. This new specific crystalline zinc source received EU approval as a nutritional additive for all animal species (functional group: compounds of trace elements).
IntelliBond Z is produced by Micronutrients (USA) and will be exclusively distributed in the EU by Orffa Additives.
Traditionally, minerals have been categorized as either organic or inorganic. This newly defined category of trace minerals, known as hydroxy trace minerals, has covalent bonds and a unique crystal matrix structure that provides reliable stability. This is what differentiates hydroxy trace minerals from other organic or inorganic minerals.
IntelliBond Z (min 55% zinc) and C (min 54% copper) are presented in a stable crystalline form with very uniform particles. The products have superior handling and stability properties in comparison to zinc and copper sulphate. They are non hygroscopic and completely free of dust. IntelliBond Z and C are not pro oxidative, so have no negative effect on sensitive feed components like vitamins. This altogether improves the handling, the mixability and the stability of premixes, supplements and compound feeds.
Next to all these benefits on handling and stability, the products have also a major advantage from a nutritional point of view. In contrast to zinc and copper sulphate, IntelliBond Z and C are not soluble at neutral pH which results in rumen by-pass trace elements and gives increased trace mineral stability in the intestine. Due to the less reactive zinc and copper ions in the upper digestive tract fewer interactions occur with other feed components. This gives more availability of these nutrients (e.g. phytate phosphorus) as well more bioavailability of the zinc and copper itself. Zinc and copper from respectively IntelliBond Z and C are released slowly over the full length of the small intestine resulting in more efficient trace element absorption and very good effect on intestinal health.
Trial results in both monogastrics as well as in ruminants confirm the superior effects of IntelliBond Z and C compared to zinc and copper sulphate.
Fred Steward (President Micronutrients): “We are very excited about the obtained EU approval for the use of IntelliBond Z in the EU market. After Orffa’s successful introduction of IntelliBond C, the approval of IntelliBond Z will allow us to also provide a smart high quality solution for the animals zinc supply.
Eddy Ketels (CEO Orffa International): After the EU introduction IntelliBond C, the obtained EU approval for IntelliBond Z is a second milestone in our partnership with Micronutrients. Following the successful use of IntelliBond in the USA for the last 15 years, we experienced in the last months that this totally new way of looking at trace element nutrition is also very much valued by the EU market. This proven experience combined with the technical knowhow of Micronutrients and their dedicated and continuously ongoing research program give us high confidence for the introduction of IntelliBond Z in the European market.
