Sodium Bicarbonate Feed Grade Supplier South Africa

What is Sodium Bicarbonate?

Sodium bicarbonate (baking soda) is a mild alkaline sodium salt widely used in animal nutrition as a buffer and electrolyte source. In the rumen, bicarbonate acts as the primary physiological buffer for managing rumen pH during rapid fermentation of starch-rich diets. Feed-grade sodium bicarbonate is a white crystalline powder or granule with excellent palatability and water solubility, making it ideal for top-dressing on TMR or for inclusion in complete feed.

Role in Animal Nutrition

In dairy cattle, sodium bicarbonate is one of the most evidence-based rumen buffers for managing sub-acute rumen acidosis (SARA) in high-producing cows fed energy-dense total mixed rations. Supplementation at 150–200 g per cow per day stabilises rumen pH, improves fibre digestibility, and supports milk fat percentage. During heat stress, poultry require additional sodium bicarbonate to compensate for respiratory alkalosis-induced bicarbonate loss, maintaining acid-base balance and supporting eggshell calcification. In heat stress conditions, sodium bicarbonate is often combined with potassium chloride and vitamin C in electrolyte programs.

Supply & Packaging

Terracore Chemicals supplies feed-grade Sodium Bicarbonate in 25 kg bags and bulk deliveries from verified manufacturers across South Africa. We serve dairy TMR operations, poultry integrators, and feed mills with reliable supply and complete technical documentation.