Diatomaceous Earth (Diatomite)

Diatomite may provide mild digestive health benefits through its physical structure. Amorphous silica particles in the GI tract may assist in mechanical toxin adsorption, improve intestinal motility, and contribute to general intestinal health maintenance. Its primary functions in feed are anti-caking and moisture control.

Yes. Feed-grade diatomite (Diasilite White) is specifically processed and tested to meet purity requirements for animal feed. It has controlled heavy metal levels, low crystalline silica content, and microbiological standards required for food and feed safety. Industrial-grade diatomite may have higher impurity levels not suitable for feed use.

Yes. Diatomite is used in vitamin and mineral premix manufacturing as an anti-caking carrier. Its high absorption capacity keeps fine vitamin and mineral particles dry and free-flowing during premix manufacturing, storage, and addition to feed batches.

Diatomite is typically used at 0.3–1.0% in feed formulations for moisture control and anti-caking. In premix manufacturing, inclusion rates of 1–5% are used depending on the moisture sensitivity and flowability requirements of the premix ingredients.

Yes. Diatomite applied as a dust in poultry housing acts as a mechanical insecticide against soft-bodied external parasites like red mites and lice by penetrating their exoskeleton and causing dehydration. This is a separate application from its use as a feed additive but contributes to overall flock health management.