Posted by GoatWorld on September 19, 2002 at 18:24:38:
Hi folks,
I've had quite a few people asking me lately about seaweed meal or kelp used as a supplement in goat feed. Mostly where they can get it because it doesn't seem to be available everywhere. Well, for those interested, I am getting a bulk shipment of it next week and will make it available at GoatWorld.
Now there are a couple of distinctly different views on using seaweed meal; those who do and those who don't. As far as I can tell by research and according to Natural Goat Care, it supplies, selenium, iodine, iron and a few other trace minerals. The best use of seaweed meal is to be offered as a free choice mineral, especially to young kids who are perhaps more susceptible to selenium deficiency. It should be noted though, seaweed meal is not intended as a replacement for other mineral mixes. Copper needs to be added as a supplement as well. If offered free choice as opposed to premixed in a mineral or feed, the goats will apparently know when they need it and partake of it accordingly.
Something else to consider is the use of seaweed meal in some performance race horse diets. Apparently, this has been a practice highly regarded for years and is considered to improve stamina and endurance.
Anyway, just thought I'd let everyone know that I'll be making this product available to those who can't obtain it locally. And if anyone out there has any experiences, good or bad, regarding seaweed meal, please let us know.
Best regards,
Gary Pfalzbot