The 2025 SummitUP: Mineral mechanics event that took place in May brought together leading experts, researchers, and industry professionals for two days of discussion and knowledge-sharing on the critical role of minerals in animal nutrition, scientific integrity, and sustainable agricultural practices.
A central theme across the presentations was the importance of balanced mineral nutrition for animal health and productivity. Experts emphasised that trace minerals are not only essential for growth and development but also play a pivotal role in immune function and disease resistance. The discussions highlighted the need for comprehensive mineral packages to ensure optimal animal well-being and performance in modern agricultural systems.
Precision nutrition for modern animal production
A recurring message throughout the event was the critical importance of tailored mineral nutrition in supporting the health, welfare, and productivity of today’s high-performing livestock. Dr Andrea Wisniewski of Zinpro Corporation emphasised that the ‘big four’ trace minerals – zinc, manganese, copper, and iron – are essential for muscle and bone development, metabolism, and immune function.
Her insights were echoed by Dr Dathan Smerchek of Iowa State University, who demonstrated how advances in genetics and growth-enhancing technologies have increased mineral requirements in beef cattle. Dr Smerchek’s research revealed that while zinc supplementation above standard requirements can boost growth, other minerals such as manganese and copper require a more nuanced approach, highlighting the need for individualised mineral strategies rather than a ‘one-size-fits-all’ solution.
Prof. Walter Grünberg of Justus-Liebig University focused on the delicate balance required in phosphorus nutrition for dairy cows, warning against both deficiency and excess. He underscored that careful management is vital, as over-supplementation can harm productivity and health, while under-supplementation, though rare, can still pose risks around calving.
Similarly, Tim Horne of Zinpro Corporation discussed how modern feed technologies, such as high-dose phytase and organic trace minerals, can optimise mineral bioavailability, reduce environmental excretion, and ensure animals receive precisely what they need for optimal performance.
The importance of precision was further reinforced by Kyle Venter of Neuro Livestock Research who introduced a cutting-edge calcium delivery system for poultry. His work addressed the variability in commercial diets and the need for accurate mineral supplementation to avoid compromising both animal health and production outcomes.
Integrating genetics, nutrition, and technology
Speakers highlighted the necessity of aligning nutritional strategies with advances in genetics and technology. Irmarie Sülwald and Xaviera Louw of PIC South Africa illustrated how genetic progress in swine has transformed the industry, creating animals that grow faster and produce more, but also requiring more precise nutritional management. They stressed the importance of close collaboration between geneticists and nutritionists to ensure that modern pigs’ enhanced potential is matched by tailored diets, particularly in minerals such as calcium and phosphorus.
Prof. Ian Dunn provided a genetic perspective on mineral nutrition in poultry, focusing on the long-life layer. He explained how genetic selection, combined with targeted nutritional interventions like betaine supplementation, can improve bone quality and welfare in laying hens. His work demonstrated that even brief deficiencies in calcium and phosphorus can have lasting effects on skeletal health, reinforcing the call for precision and vigilance.
Animal welfare and sustainable practices
Animal welfare and sustainability were central to the discussions. Dr Arturo Gomez of Zinpro Corporation addressed the significant impact of lameness in cows and sows, linking it to mineral imbalances and highlighting the economic and ethical imperatives of early detection and management. His message resonated with the broader commitment to responsible animal care and sustainable agriculture.
The environmental impact of mineral supplementation was also a concern, with several speakers at the SummitUP: Mineral mechanics event emphasising the need to minimise excess mineral excretion through optimised formulations and innovative feed technologies.
Upholding research integrity and ethical leadership
Beyond the technical and scientific advances, the event underscored the foundational importance of research integrity. Prof. Esté van Marle-Köster of the University of Pretoria delivered a compelling call for ethical leadership in science, tracing the evolution of research ethics and advocating for robust governance, transparency, and honesty in all research practices. Her message served as a reminder that scientific progress must always be rooted in responsibility to animals, society, and the environment.
Terry Wiggil of Chemuniqué said the 2025 SummitUP: Mineral mechanics event showcased global collaboration by uniting the latest research from universities and industry experts worldwide. “A unique multi-species approach revealed striking similarities in responses across different animals, opening new opportunities for cross-application of research findings.” He said the industry is on the verge of transformative change, and there is a strong call to action for all stakeholders to reassess current practices, nutritional strategies, and production methods to adapt and thrive in this evolving landscape.