Which is Better: Diatomaceous Earth Food Grade vs. Feed Grade
Diatomaceous earth (DE) is a versatile product that has found applications in various industries, ranging from pest control to pet health. With two commonly available forms—food grade and feed grade—it's essential to understand the differences and choose the right one for your needs. This article will explore the distinctions and provide guidance on whether food grade or feed grade DE is better for your specific purposes.
Understanding Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth is a naturally occurring soft sedimentary rock consisting of fossilized exoskeletons of diatoms. Diatoms are single-celled algae that lived in water, and their fossilized remains have been compressed into sedimentary rocks over millions of years.
Quality Differences: Food Grade vs. Feed Grade
Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth: This form of DE is primarily used for human consumption. It has stringent quality controls to ensure it meets the safety standards required for use in food products. Food grade DE is typically pure and free from harmful contaminants and impurities. It's often used as a natural desiccant or in alternative health products like supplements.
Feed Grade Diatomaceous Earth: Feed grade DE is used in animal feed and agricultural applications, and it may have a higher tolerance for certain impurities. While still a natural product, feed grade DE may contain trace amounts of minerals and other substances that are not found in food grade DE.
Applications and Uses
Indoor Pest Control
Both food and feed grade DE are commonly used for indoor pest control, specifically to control insects. When spread in areas where pests might travel, DE can dehydrate and kill them. However, since food grade DE is intended for human use, it's a safer choice when using it around food preparation areas or in environments where food is present.
Companion Animal Health
Some pet owners use DE to help their reptiles and birds maintain proper bone density. One common condition in these animals is Metabolic Bone Disease (MBD), which can be addressed by supplementing their diet with DE. Since food grade DE is safer for use around food, it's recommended for feeding to these pets to prevent ingestion of harmful contaminants. On the other hand, feed grade DE is not suitable for feeding to pets due to the potential presence of impurities.
Environmental Impact and Safety Considerations
Both types of DE have minimal environmental impact when used correctly. However, food grade DE is preferred in applications where contamination is a concern, such as around food or in pet care. It's important to follow safety guidelines and handle both types of DE with care to avoid inhalation or ingestion.
Choosing the Right Type of DE
Ultimately, the choice between food grade and feed grade DE depends on the specific application and what you plan to do with it. If you're using DE for pest control or for pet health, food grade DE is generally the safer and better choice due to its purity and intended use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use feed grade DE on my pets?
A: It is not recommended to use feed grade DE on your pets because it may contain impurities that could be harmful to their health.
Q: Which type is cheaper?
A: Feed grade DE is often less expensive than food grade DE due to the relaxed standards for impurities and contaminants.
Q: Can I use food grade DE for insect pest control in my home?
A: Yes, food grade DE is safe to use for indoor pest control around human living areas and food storage.
Conclusion
When deciding between food grade and feed grade diatomaceous earth, consider the intended use and the potential risks associated with each form. For safety and reliability, especially around food and pet care, food grade DE is usually the better option.
Keywords: diatomaceous earth, food grade, feed grade