Sources of minerals
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Sources of Minerals: An Overview
Mineral Resources from Mining
Mineral resources are essential for modern society, providing the raw materials needed for construction, transportation, energy generation, and technology development. Minerals such as copper, lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements (REE) are particularly crucial for the transition to renewable energy sources . The extraction and processing of these minerals are vital to meet the growing demands of an advancing society.
Edible Plants as Mineral Sources
Edible plants, particularly those enhanced with minerals, offer a promising alternative to traditional inorganic mineral supplements. For example, Brassica juncea can be cultivated hydroponically to contain high levels of essential minerals like chromium, iron, manganese, selenium, and zinc. These plants provide minerals in a more bioavailable form compared to conventional supplements, making them an effective source of dietary minerals .
Natural Mineral Waters
Natural calcium-rich mineral waters are another valuable source of minerals, particularly calcium. These waters can significantly contribute to daily calcium intake, especially for individuals with lactose intolerance or those on plant-based diets. The bioavailability of calcium from mineral waters is high, enhancing absorption and offering potential benefits for bone health, cardiovascular function, and weight management .
Soil and Plant-Based Mineral Nutrients
Soil is the primary source of mineral nutrients, which are absorbed by plants and then transferred to animals and humans through the food chain. Plant foods contain almost all essential minerals required for human nutrition, playing a critical role in various bodily functions, including skeletal structure and enzymatic processes. Consuming a variety of foods, such as whole grains, dairy, meats, vegetables, and fruits, is essential to prevent mineral deficiencies .
Food Fortification and Processing
Fortifying foods with minerals like iron, calcium, zinc, and iodine can enhance their nutritional value. Modern processing techniques, such as high pressure and sonication, help preserve the mineral content of foods. Additionally, agrobiotechnological methods, including gene overexpression and nanoencapsulation, can increase the concentration and bioavailability of minerals in crops .
Trace Minerals in Animal Nutrition
Trace minerals play a significant role in the health and performance of livestock. Studies have shown that organic trace mineral supplements can improve the performance of dairy cows, broiler breeders, and fattening pigs compared to inorganic sources. Organic minerals enhance bioavailability, leading to better growth, feed efficiency, and overall health in animals 678910.
Conclusion
Minerals are indispensable for various aspects of human and animal health. While traditional mining remains a primary source, alternative sources such as mineral-enriched plants and natural mineral waters offer significant benefits. Fortification and advanced processing techniques further enhance the availability and efficacy of these essential nutrients. Understanding and utilizing diverse mineral sources can help meet the nutritional needs of both humans and animals effectively.
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