Review: History of chromium in animal nutrition in the United States

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review animal research studies with chromium (Cr) sources that are permitted or approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Sources

Research in peer-reviewed journals was the source of information reviewed.

Synthesis

Chromium tripicolinate (Chromax) and chromium propionate (KemTRACE Cr) are permitted by FDA for supplementation to swine diets at a level up to 0.20 mg Cr/kg diet. Chromium propionate (CrProp) is permitted by FDA for supplementation to cattle diets at a level up to 0.50 mg Cr/kg diet, and is approved for supplementation to adult horses at a level of 4 mg Cr/d, and broiler and turkey diets at a level not to exceed 0.20 mg Cr/kg diet. Chromium supplementation in swine has increased litter size in sows. In lactating dairy cows, CrProp supplementation has increased milk production and reproductive performance, and increased ADG and hot carcass wt in finishing steers. Improved gain and feed efficiency have been reported in broilers and turkeys supplemented with CrProp. In adult horses, CrProp supplementation increased insulin sensitivity following oral or i.v. carbohydrate administration.

Conclusions and Applications

Studies in lactating dairy cows, finishing steers, broilers, and turkeys have indicated that CrProp supplementation can improve performance. Supplementation of Cr picolinate (CrPic) has increased litter size in sows in several studies. Animal responses to Cr supplementation have been variable and research is needed to determine factors that affect responses to Cr supplementation. Chromium propionate may be beneficial in preventing insulin resistance or improving insulin sensitivity in insulin-resistant horses.