Attapulgite

Attapulgite controls diarrhea through multiple mechanisms: it adsorbs bacterial toxins and pathogens, absorbs excess water in the intestinal lumen to normalise stool consistency, forms a protective film on the intestinal mucosa, and stabilises intestinal motility — collectively reducing severity and duration of diarrheal episodes.

Yes. Unlike bentonite, attapulgite maintains its adsorption capacity and structure in saline and acidic conditions found in the stomach and small intestine. This stability makes it effective throughout the GI tract — from the acidic stomach to the more neutral small intestine — providing consistent toxin binding performance.

Yes. Attapulgite is particularly valuable in starter feeds for young animals (chicks, piglets, calves) that are susceptible to digestive disorders and diarrhea due to immature immune and digestive systems. Its anti-diarrheal and gut stabilisation properties help young animals establish healthy intestinal conditions during the critical early growth phase.

Attapulgite (Microngel AT100) is typically included at 0.3–1.5% of the feed formulation. Lower rates (0.3–0.5%) are used for general gut health maintenance, while higher rates (1–1.5%) are used for therapeutic anti-diarrheal applications or in high-risk periods such as weaning, transportation stress, or disease challenge.

Attapulgite has relatively low affinity for vitamins and essential minerals at normal dietary levels, making it less likely to reduce nutrient bioavailability compared to some other adsorbents. Its primary adsorption targets are toxins, pathogens, and excess water in the gut.