Skeletal muscle is complex and dynamic. Its functional characteristics and metabolic properties adapt based on environmental and physiological factors. Therefore, changes to an animal’s genetics, growth rate, nutrition, locomotion and metabolism can greatly alter skeletal muscle composition and, ultimately, meat quality. Minerals are indispensable nutrients involved in various biological processes, such as metabolism, reproduction and immunity. They serve as activators and cofactors for various enzymes and are critical components of cellular membranes. In muscle, mineral concentration depends on mineral absorptivity, muscle type, animal age and genetics, and environmental factors. As such, alterations in mineral nutrition can dramatically impact the overall health and wellness of the animal and, subsequently, product quality.

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