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Michael Gottstein, Head of Sheep in Teagasc joins Ciaran Lynch on this episode of OviCast to discuss mineral supplementation in sheep flocks. A common practice on many farms during the season, Michael starts by discussing some of the findings of a recent study that has looked at this in more detail. He discusses the extent of mineral usage in Irish flocks and some of the drivers behind the decision process of why farmers are using mineral supplementation. He also discusses some of the key minerals that influence production and clinical signs of mineral deficiencies. Focusing in particular on cobalt, Michael describes how it influences lamb performance. Finally, he explains why it is important to see a performance benefit from the investment in supplementation to offset the cost and effort involved and how you might go about doing this. For more episodes and information visit the OviCast show page: https://www.teagasc.ie/animals/sheep/ovicast-sheep-podcast/