Sodium bicarbonate

What is sodium bicarbonate?

Sodium bicarbonate is a mineral that is also known as bicarbonate of soda

Specific effect

• The most important use of sodium bicarbonate in dairy cows is as a buffer, i.e. it neutralises acids in the rumen.
• A well-functioning cow produces its own source of sodium bicarbonate through the saliva in the amount of up to 2 kg daily. This volume is insufficient for structurally deficient feed rations with short chewing time, so an extra supplement of sodium bicarbonate is often worth it in these situations.

Possibilities of positive yields

• Higher feed intake
• Prevents subacute ruminal acidosis (SARA)
• Prevents laminitis
• Prevents ketosis
• Stronger hooves
• Improves reproduction
• More balanced energy in early lactation
• Prevents displaced abomasum
• Reduces veterinarian costs
• Increases milk yields

Product

• Sodium bicarbonate
• Recommended ration
• 200–300 grams of sodium bicarbonate per cow per day

Rationing options

• Administer sodium carbonate by means of a mineral compound, as a top dressing or by mixing it directly into a feed compound.
• Permitted for use by organic farmers