Retail Guide
Tracesure® Advanced long-lasting trace element boluses provide cattle and sheep with four essential trace elements for up to six months from one single compact bolus.
Building on a longstanding legacy in precision nutrition, Tracesure® Advanced sets a new benchmark in trace element supplementation, thanks to its advanced technology, formulation, science and packaging.
This retail guide is intended to support any persons involved in the stocking, distribution and sales of Tracesure® Advanced trace element boluses. If you have any further questions or queries, please contact your trade account manager or email enquiries@tracesure.co.uk
Assessing the trace element deficiency risk
Most soil, and therefore most grass and forages, are deficient in one or more essential trace elements. A trace element deficiency risk is highest when:
Soil is naturally low in trace elements – i.e. fast draining sandy soils.
Grass growth is rapid, effectively diluting its trace element levels.
Rainfall is high, causing ‘soil splash’ - exposing grazing livestock to trace element antagonists.
Animals have an increased trace element demand, such as during pregnancy.
Animals have a reduced appetite - if they are ill or pre-partum - reducing their feed intakes.
It is best practice to assess and analyse trace element status before planning any supplementation, in consultation with a vet, RAMA, and/or nutritionist.
1 compact bolus. 4 essential trace elements. Up to 6 months of controlled supply, with zero compromise.
The benefits of bolus supplementation
Trace elements are required in small but vital amounts throughout every stage of an animal’s life. Ensuring every animal receives the right levels consistently through feed sources alone can be a tough challenge, and difficult to accurately monitor - particularly on grass-based systems.
Bolusing is a simple yet advanced approach to trace element supplementation essential for:
Aiding forage digestion
Supporting good immunity
Helping to maintain good fertility and foetal development
Promoting daily liveweight gain (with copper)
Supplementation That Delivers Value
With enough trace elements in one bolus to cover your animals’ requirements for up to six months, Tracesure® Advanced helps to:
• Reduce time spent on daily feed supplementation
• Cut the cost of expensive health treatments and infertility cases
• Optimise growth rates, drive yields, and support fertility
All without the hidden expense of extra feed inputs.
With these factors in mind, Advanced has been developed to supply sufficiently high levels of bioavailable trace elements to meet the health and production needs of livestock. Based on proven diffusion technology and built for durability, these are released for up to six months.
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Tracesure® Advanced
Tracesure® Advanced is the next generation of trace element bolus technology engineered for farmers who require precision, performance and practicality on farm.
4 1in
Advanced Technology
Diffusion-based release technology ensures a consistent delivery for up to six months.
Advanced Formulation
A unique specification and manufacturing process combines all four trace elements in one bolus.
4
1
Advanced Science
Backed by advanced science and real-world research to perform, with zero compromise.
Advanced Packaging
Waterproof, resealable container with honeycomb structured cardboard inner helps to protect boluses in transit and during storage on-farm.
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Tracesure® Advanced Cattle
Tracesure® Advanced (mg per bolus) is now integrated into are included to help with the release of the Cattle Cattle
When bolused with Tracesure® Advanced Cattle, a 300 kg beef steer with a daily dry matter intake (DMI) of approximately 7 kg would have its daily requirements for the four essential trace elements met over 180 days (up to 6 months).
*(Daily release rates are estimates, based on calculation)
Supply exceeds requirement in this case, because the bolus can be fed to a range of animal liveweights (200kg - 500kg), with larger animals having higher requirements.
The presence of antagonists, and the varying background levels in forage and soil also need to be considered.
The zinc and manganese included in the formulation are not intended to fully meet animal requirements; rather, they support the release of the four primary trace elements. However, they do make a small yet valuable contribution to overall trace element intake.
Tracesure® Advanced product specification
Tracesure®
Advanced Cattle XL
The trace element specification of Tracesure® Advanced Cattle XL is comparable to the original Tracesure® Cattle XL bolus.
Target Species: Cattle over 500kg
ANIMAX Tracesure® Cattle XL (mg per bolus)
Tracesure® Advanced Cattle XL (mg per bolus)
Copper is now integrated into the same bolus
Zinc and Manganese are included to help with the release of the main trace elements
Tracesure® Advanced Cattle XL no copper - 110g
Tracesure® Advanced Cattle XL with copper - 160g
Tracesure® Advanced product specification
Tracesure® Advanced Sheep
The trace element specification of Tracesure® Advanced Sheep is comparable to the original Tracesure® Sheep bolus.
Target Species: Sheep over 40kg
ANIMAX Tracesure® Sheep (mg per bolus)
Tracesure® Advanced Sheep (mg per bolus)
Copper is now integrated into the same bolus
Zinc and Manganese are included to help with the release of the main trace elements
Tracesure® Advanced Sheep no copper - 12g
Tracesure® Advanced Sheep with copper - 15g
Tracesure® Advanced product specification
Tracesure® Advanced Calf
Young calves have high nutritional needs for growth and immune system development. Trace elements are crucial, and deficiencies can cause poor growth, weak immunity, or disease.
The correct trace element levels help calves develop stronger bones, better digestion, and improved resistance to disease, which ultimately boosts long-term herd performance.
A new era in calf trace element supplementation is approaching with the next-generation Tracesure® Advanced Calf boluses.
What’s inside Tracesure® Advanced?
Not all trace element sources are equal. Tracesure® Advanced is carefully formulated using trace elements selected for their sustained release and bioavailability within the animal.
Cobalt
In the form of cobalt carbonate for its safe and slow release properties.
Iodine
In the form as calcium iodate as a slow-release source of iodine.
Selenium
In the form of sodium selenite – for slower-releasing and bioavailability in the animal.
Copper
In the form of copper oxide, as a slow release source of copper (optional).
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Tracesure® Advanced release
Building on the original diffusion release mechanism as the core mode of action, Tracesure® Advanced now also utilses surface layer erosion to
The bolus is applied orally and enters the rumen
The absorbed fluid causes the trace elements inside the bolus to diffuse outward
Rumen fluid is absorbed into the porous bolus
releases trace elements through diffusion: the flow of water from the external environment into the bolus enables the trace elements to gradually leave the bolus. There is another mechanism at work too – controlled surface layer erosion. This also helps to supply trace elements into the rumen fluid, and results in the bolus reducing in size over time.
Simultaneously, the surface layer erosion releases additional trace elements
The combination of diffusion from the inside and surface erosion from the outside ensures ensures the gradual supply of trace elements into the rumen fluid, ready for later absorption, and the bolus gradually reducing in size over time.
Tracesure® Advanced science
With many boluses claiming slow-release performance, it’s important to look for scientific research that evidences how the bolus achieves this
Tracesure® Advanced delivers trace elements primarily via diffusion. According to the Tracesure® Advanced in-vitro study data, when the bolus first enters the rumen, it initially gains weight. This is because water from the rumen fluid is entering the bolus, confirming its porosity. This absorbed water is what causes the trace elements inside the bolus to diffuse outward into the rumen fluid. The bolus also provides some trace element release via surface-layer erosion.
Dr Richard Wynn, Head of Technical at FEVARA, has led the science and research behind Tracesure® Advanced, explains why the initial weight gain is a positive sign.
Dr Richard Wynn Head of Technical at FEVARA plc
“For trace elements to be able to diffuse out, water must first be able to enter the bolus. The semi-permeable surface allows this to happen, and after this initial phase, the trace elements begin to diffuse into the rumen fluid, and this is reflected by the bolus then starting to lose weight. This process – water diffusing in and trace elements diffusing out –continues for the duration that the bolus is in the rumen”, says Richard.
“Using patented in-vitro laboratory trials, we have been able to monitor how the bolus behaves over its lifespan. We have formulated each product to follow a specific weightloss profile, aiming for it to be 95% spent by the end of the 6-month period. We also want the weight-loss curve to be nice and smooth from day 1 to day 180. If neither of these outcomes are found, this reduces the likelihood that trace element release will happen steadily, and this might create a higher risk of trace element deficiencies occurring”, adds Richard.
“Monitoring the Tracesure Advanced Cattle boluses every two days under highly controlled conditions, we can confirm that the weight loss occurs at the consistent and gradual rate we’d expect. The rest of the range is following the same pattern so far”.
Figure 1: In-Vitro Weight Loss Chart, Tracesure® Advanced Cattle
Oblong Bombé M45
reference 1
2: In-Vivo Weight Loss Chart
“And, recognising the importance of on-farm validation, a short-term study on a bolus produced using the same manufacturing method showed that the in vitro (lab) model reliably predicted in vivo (live animal) outcomes. This is really important as it validates the lab approach as being a reliable predictor of on-farm performance”, concludes Richard.
reference 2
Tracesure® Advanced combines diffusion and surface-layer erosion, producing the gradual and predictable weight loss shown in these charts. The use of patented methodology to undertake this work, supports reliable, consistent bolus performance and gives us confidence in their effectiveness.
Figure
Frequently asked questions
Manufacturing
Who is manufacturing Tracesure now, and why?
Following the closure of the ANIMAX manufacturing site, Fevara plc contracted bolus production to an established manufacturer in France - Vetalis. Vetalis now manufacture the Tracesure® Advanced range of boluses exclusively for Fevara plc. Vétalis, guided by its vet shareholders- share our “strive for more” approach to animal health and performance. As the Tracesure® Advanced brand continues to grow, the partnership provides greater scope for production scale, product development, research and product quality.
Mode of action
Does the new bolus still use diffusion? Does it still provide a steady release?
Retention
If the bolus gets smaller, how does it stay in the rumen reliably?
Tracesure® Advanced is built on a unique manufacturing process, combining diffusion technology with surface-layer erosion. Product development is by years of research by Vétalis to provide reliable trace element release in the rumen.
Once in the rumen, the Tracesure® Advanced bolus absorbs water from the rumen fluid, increasing its weight. This, combined with the built-in ballast, means we can expect the bolus to remain at the bottom of the rumen for up to 6-months, whilst it releases trace elements, even as the bolus loses weight over it’s lifespan.
Research
How can Tracesure Advanced immediately demonstrate advanced performance capabilities?
Tracesure® Advanced is based on Vetalis’ established and proven technology. Full details are available within the Sales Training Presentation.
Frequently asked questions
Exclusivity
What makes Tracesure Advanced different to other Vétalis products?
Copper
What form of copper does the new bolus supply? Is it as bioavailable as the copper oxide needles?
Maintaining the tried and tested Tracesure specification, the Tracesure® Advanced range is specifically designed for UK and Ireland market conditions - continuing to provide what’s needed for our forages, climate and stockman expectations.
Tracesure® Advanced now incorporates copper oxide within the same bolus as iodine, cobalt, and selenium. This allows copper to be released steadily over a 6-month period through advanced diffusion release technologies, eliminating the need for a separate copper bolus to be administered. This approach is time-proven by Vétalis.
Copper
How easy is it to load the copper now?
Tracesure® Advanced copper is now included in one single application - there’s now no need to remember to include the capsule/ bolus separately - making application quicker and more reliable. No more chewed sheep capsules, or damaged cattle boluses.
Selenium
Are the selenium levels in Tracesure Advanced still safe?
Tracesure® Advanced continues to deliver high levels of selenium via a controlled and safe rate of release. The formulation uses sodium selenite, a form of selenium that is slow-releasing.
Frequently asked questions
Iodine
Tracesure used two sources of iodine - one faster acting than the other. How does the new bolus compare?
Cobalt
Is cobalt sulphate heptahydrate more rumen available than cobalt carbonate at higher pH?
Size
Is the new bolus the same compact size, or bigger?
Tracesure® Advanced focuses on calcium iodate as a slow-release source of iodine. This efficiently and cost-effectively maximises the ability of iodine to be supplied over the longer-term. Out R&D has shown that there is no need for a faster release source of iodine.
Tracesure® Advanced is formulated with cobalt carbonate as it is a slower release form of cobalt than cobalt sulphate. Cobalt sulphate is more dangerous to handle than cobalt carbonate.
Tracesure® Advanced Cattle and Cattle XL are slightly wider than the original Tracesure products, but remain compact and easy to administer. Tracesure® Advanced Sheep maintains our compact 12mm diameter. Versions containing copper are similar in size/ weight to the previous 2 boluses combined.
Organic
Is Tracesure Advanced approved for use on organic systems?
Tracesure® Advanced is not currently approved for use in certified organic systems; however, it may be used during the 3-year transition period while a farm is converting to organic status.
Application
Is Tracesure Advanced bolused the same way?
Tracesure® Advanced boluses are to be applied in the same tried and tested waylook out for our supporting guides and videos on best practice.
Frequently asked questions
Appearance
What does the new Tracesure Advanced bolus look like?
Tracesure® Advanced is still recognisable by its unique design featuring signature grooves on the outer surface (NB. the initial boluses are singularly grooved). The bolus is a slightly different colour, without-copper versions can be described as sandy-grey, and with- copper as dark grey to black. Slight colour variations can be expected from bolus to bolus due to the natural variability of the copper oxide.
Applicator
Can I use by old bolus applicator? What is the cost of the new one?
Tracesure® Advanced requires a new applicator which has been ergonomically designed for ease of use, boasting significant improvements in reliability. The new applicators also include a rubber tip, helping reduce the risk of injury. Replacement rubbers can be purchased for the end of the applicators from Scotmin Nutrition.
Sheep bolus applicators will continue to be usable.
Packaging
Tracesure packaging in the past has failed to support the product, causing damaged boluses, and difficulty on farm- what have you done to improve this?
Tracesure® Advanced includes a number of improvements on the previous carboard box/ plastic trays. Now being fully recyclable, our resealable containers provide more protection from shocks, drops, and water ingress after opening. There are also no more fiddly plastic films to wrestle with!
Tracesure® Advanced Cattle
For cattle weighing 200kg - 500kg
Requires a Tracesure® Advanced Cattle applicator.
DO NOT give Tracesure® Advanced to pre-ruminant animals.
ONLY USE if a trace element deficiency is known to be a risk.
The bolus should only be given at intervals exceeding six months, unless otherwise authorised by a veterinary surgeon.
Tracesure® Advanced XL Cattle
For cattle weighing over 500kg
Requires a Tracesure® Advanced Cattle XL applicator.
If supplying copper, the copper status of the herd should be known, and no other form of copper supplement should be given immediately prior or for 6 months from application.
Simultaneous supplementation of additives with a maximum content from other sources to those incorporated in a bolus should be avoided.
For sheep weighing 40kg+ Tracesure® Advanced Sheep
Requires a Tracesure® Advanced Sheep applicator. The original Tracesure applicator is compatible with the new Tracesure® Advanced Sheep bolus.
DO NOT give Tracesure® Advanced to pre-ruminant animals.
ONLY USE if a trace element deficiency is known to be a risk.
Each bolus should be given at intervals exceeding six months, unless otherwise authorised by a veterinary surgeon.
If supplying copper, the copper status of the flock should be known, and no other form of copper supplement should be given immediately prior or for 6 months from application.
Simultaneous supplementation of additives with a maximum content from other sources to those incorporated in a bolus should be avoided.
Product specifications
Tracesure® Advanced Cattle
Pre-Breeding, Pre-Calving, Turnout, Housing
Pack size of the product
Outer quantity
Supplier Product Code/Sku ref
Net Mass
Barcode of the product
Product Commodity Code
packs
Country of Manufacture 20 applications
5060050113124
23099096
France
Tracesure® Advanced Cattle with copper
Pre-Breeding, Pre-Calving, Turnout, Housing
Pack size of the product
Outer quantity
Supplier Product Code/Sku ref
Net Mass
Barcode
23099096
France
Tracesure® Advanced Cattle XL
Pre-Breeding, Pre-Calving, Turnout, Housing
Pack size of the product
Supplier Product Code/Sku ref
Net Mass
Barcode
23099096
France
Product specifications
Tracesure® Advanced Cattle XL with copper
Pre-Breeding, Pre-Calving, Turnout, Housing
Pack size of the product
Outer quantity
Supplier Product Code/Sku ref
Net Mass
Barcode of the product
Product Commodity Code
Country of Manufacture
20 applications 90 packs 10006650 3.2Kg
5060050113155
23099096
France
Tracesure® Advanced Sheep
Pre-Tupping, Pre-Lambing, Scanning, Grazing
Pack size of the product
Supplier Product Code/Sku ref
Net Mass
Barcode of the product
Product Commodity Code
Country of Manufacture
100 applications 10006651
1.3Kg
5060050113162
23099096
France
Tracesure® Advanced Sheep with copper
Pre-Tupping, Pre-Lambing, Scanning, Grazing
Pack size of the product
Supplier Product Code/Sku ref
Net Mass
Barcode of the product
Product Commodity Code
Country of Manufacture
100 applications 10006652 1.3Kg
5060050113179
23099096
France
Tracesure® Advanced Calf Turnout and Housing
Pack size of the product
Outer quantity
Supplier Product Code/Sku ref
Net Mass
Barcode of the product
Product Commodity Code
Country of Manufacture
applications
France
For Tracesure® Advanced bolus applicators please see page 28 Expert Support
Product specifications
Tracesure® Advanced bolus applicators
Tracesure® Advanced Cattle Bolus Applicator
For all Tracesure® Advanced Cattle boluses (with and without copper)
Pack size of the product
Supplier Product Code/Sku ref
Barcode of the product
Country of Manufacture
1 applicator
10006674
5060050113209
France
Tracesure® Advanced Cattle XL Bolus Applicator
For all Tracesure® Advanced Cattle XL boluses (with and without copper)
Pack size of the product
Supplier Product Code/Sku ref
Barcode of the product
Country of Manufacture
Tracesure® Advanced Sheep Bolus Applicator
For all Tracesure® Advanced Sheep boluses (with and without copper)
Pack size of the product
Supplier Product Code/Sku ref
Barcode of the product
Country of Manufacture
1 applicator
10006686
5060050113230
France
Tracesure® Advanced Calf Bolus Applicator
For all Tracesure® Advanced Calf boluses
Pack size of the product
Supplier Product Code/Sku ref
Barcode of the product Country of Manufacture
Overall Advantage
Tracesure® Advanced combines the proven benefits of the original Tracesure boluses with modern manufacturing technology from Vétalis, offering farmers a reliable, practical, single-application trace element supplementation solution.
The bolus’s advanced diffusion technology and high-spec formulation - backed by patented science and research - ensures a supply of trace elements for up to six months.