Iodine Requirements and Supplementation in Beef Cows

Iodine is an important trace mineral that is involved in energy metabolism and other physiological functions. Very little data is available on the iodine content of forages and other feeds. However, the available data indicates that the iodine content of forages and feeds is generally well below animal requirements.

A loose mineral supplement that contains about 80 ppm iodine with a target intake of 3 to 4 ounces is appropriate to meet the iodine requirements of cows.

Feeding excess iodine has not been shown to help foot rot and consumption of excess iodine can reduce animal performance.