Feed pellets are preferred in modern animal husbandry for their convenience, reduced waste, and consistent nutrient distribution. However, producing durable pellets that resist crumbling during transport and handling is a challenge. Bentonite powder addresses this by acting as a natural binder, improving the cohesion of feed ingredients. When added to feed mixtures, the clay particles form bonds between grains, proteins, and other components, increasing pellet hardness and reducing breakage. This results in higher-quality pellets that maintain their structure from production to consumption, minimizing dust and waste in feedlots and poultry houses.​

Dust reduction is a significant advantage of using bentonite powder in feed. Fine feed particles can create dust during mixing, pelleting, and feeding, which poses risks to both animals and workers—irritating respiratory systems and reducing air quality. Bentonite’s binding action reduces the number of fine particles, lowering dust levels and creating a healthier environment. Additionally, less dust means fewer nutrient losses, as valuable vitamins, minerals, and proteins are no longer carried away in airborne particles.​

Bentonite powder also helps preserve feed freshness by reducing moisture absorption. Feed stored in humid environments is prone to caking, mold growth, and spoilage, which can degrade nutrients and produce toxins harmful to animals. Bentonite’s moisture-absorbing properties help maintain optimal moisture levels in pellets, extending shelf life and ensuring that feed remains palatable and nutritious. This is particularly beneficial in regions with high humidity or for feeds with high oil content, which are more susceptible to rancidity.​

Beyond binding, bentonite powder offers potential benefits for animal digestive health. Its porous structure can adsorb mycotoxins—harmful substances produced by mold in contaminated feed—reducing their absorption in the animal’s gut. While not a replacement for proper feed storage, this mycotoxin-binding capacity adds a layer of protection, supporting overall animal health and productivity. Studies have shown that including bentonite in feed can improve weight gain in livestock and egg production in poultry by minimizing the negative effects of subclinical mycotoxin exposure.​

The compatibility of bentonite powder with various feed ingredients makes it versatile across different animal species. It works effectively in cattle, swine, poultry, and aquaculture feeds, adapting to formulations with varying levels of grains, proteins, and additives. Its inert nature ensures that it does not interfere with nutrient absorption or react with other feed components, making it a safe additive for all stages of animal growth.​

Cost-effectiveness is another key factor in the widespread use of bentonite powder in feed production. Compared to synthetic binders, bentonite is more affordable and requires lower dosage rates to achieve effective binding. Its availability in bulk quantities also supports large-scale feed manufacturing operations, ensuring consistent supply and reducing production costs.​

Quality control is essential for feed-grade bentonite powder. Reputable suppliers provide products with low heavy metal content and strict microbiological standards, ensuring safety for animal consumption. Many manufacturers offer food-grade certifications, meeting regulatory requirements in major markets such as the EU, US, and Asia, which is critical for exporters and multinational feed producers.​

In summary, bentonite powder’s role as a feed binder enhances pellet durability, reduces dust and nutrient loss, and supports feed preservation. Its additional benefits for mycotoxin adsorption and animal health, combined with cost-effectiveness and compatibility with various feed formulations, make it an indispensable additive in the animal feed industry, contributing to efficient and sustainable livestock and poultry production.