Micronutrients

18 April 2012 – IntelliBond C (Tribasic copper chloride – TBCC) is a completely new form of copper, which is available for animal nutrition in Europe from today onwards. This new specific crystalline copper source received EU approval as a nutritional additive for all animal species (functional group: compounds of trace elements).

IntelliBond C is produced by Micronutrients (USA) and has been marketed successfully in the USA and Canada since 1996. In the EU IntelliBond C will be exclusively distributed 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® C is presented in a stable crystalline form with very uniform particles. The product has superior handling and stability properties in comparison to copper sulphate. It is non hygroscopic and completely free of dust. IntelliBond C is not pro oxidative, so has 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 product has also a major advantage from a nutritional point of view. In contrast to copper sulphate, IntelliBond C is not soluble at neutral pH which results in a rumen by-pass trace element and gives increased trace mineral stability in the intestine. Less reactive copper ions occur in the upper digestive tract, so less interactions with other feed components. This gives more availability of these nutrients (e.g. phytate phosphorus) as well more bioavailability of the copper itself. Copper from IntelliBond C is released slowly over the full length of the small intestine resulting in more efficient copper absorption and very good effect on intestinal health. Trial results in both monogastrics as well as in ruminants confirm the superior effects of IntelliBond C compared to copper sulphate.

Fred Steward, President of Micronutrients, commented: “We are very excited about the introduction of IntelliBond C in the EU market and the partnership with Orffa is extremely valuable for us. We see the company as a highly reliable partner with both very technical skills as well market knowledge in the animal nutrition market. Over 40 years of experience and a solid reputation make Orffa the perfect partner to introduce IntelliBond C into the European market”.

Eddy Ketels, CEO of Orffa Internationa, added: “The introduction of IntelliBond C is a milestone for our company and we are extremely delighted about the partnership with Micronutrients. This is a totally new way of looking at trace element nutrition. In the USA IntelliBond C has been used over 15 years with a market share of over 30% of total Cu market for animal nutrition. This proven experience combined with the technical knowhow of Micronutrients and their dedicated and continuously ongoing research program give us high confidence for the future”.

Source: Orffa International
(dated 18/04/2012)