Soaring fertiliser and supplement prices drives need for full mineral analysis

20th April 2022

Independent Analytical Supplies (IAS), leading Irish agricultural and environmental testing laboratory, has a solution for farmers wanting to increase efficiency in response to soaring fertiliser and supplement prices. IAS Laboratories has a proud tradition helping Irish farmers overcome these issues for more than a quarter of a century.

‘Accurate, reliable data is essential in driving efficient farming practices, particularly in light of recent challenges livestock farmers are facing,’ said Michael Hogan, Technical Advisor ‘Fertiliser prices have soared to €1,200 per tonne, making it far more expensive to grow nutritious grass for forage. Both Brexit and the conflict in Ukraine have also resulted in soaring prices for imported supplements. While these issues are worldwide, Irish farmers are also feeling the pressure due to rising costs and declining farm incomes.

‘To obtain the insight needed to help cut costs, ensure farmers only supply the fertilisers and supplements that are needed, and optimise crop growth and livestock production, farmers need to regularly test the nutritional value of fresh grass.’

Grass and milk analysis are essential tools in diagnosing and quantifying the background mineral levels on dairy farms and in monitoring the effectiveness of livestock nutrition programmes. IAS’ full mineral analysis on milk and grass identifies any deficiencies and imbalances that result from a poor diet. These imbalances can affect herd productivity through lower fertility, reduced milk production, and reduced thrive and immunity. They can also sometimes cause skin, eye, and hoof problems.

‘With the breeding season just around the corner, now is the perfect time to think about taking samples for mineral analysis,’ continued Michael. ‘Minerals play an integral role in a successful breeding cycle. Going into breeding, we want a cow with a healthy immune system that displays a strong heat. This immunity is supported by trace minerals including copper, iodine, zinc, and vitamin E, and silent heats are linked to deficiencies in copper and iodine in particular.

‘Analysing now means you can adjust nutrition plans before deficiencies become yield limiting. It also helps farmers avoid having to buy expensive supplements and fertiliser to make corrections last minute.’

IAS’ full scan includes all major and trace minerals, giving you a clear indication of your herd’s mineral profile. This allows farmers and advisors to make calculated adjustments to crop and livestock nutrition programmes for optimal productivity and profitability.

‘In times like these where fertiliser and supplement prices have skyrocketed and markets are less predictable, our value-added services and extensive expertise allow us to support farmers and their advisors in their decision-making,’ said Simon Parrington, Chief Executive Officer of Cawood. ‘Part of our commitment to our customers is to provide them with effective solutions to their problems. Services like these help farmers be more efficient and profitable while remaining resilient in turbulent times.’

For more details on our full mineral analysis services, contact us:
059 972 1022
[email protected]

To order your test kit, visit https://iaslabs.ie/ias-labs-tests/.