Because phosphate rock naturally contains fluoride, and fluoride accumulates in bone and teeth in livestock fed contaminated mineral supplements, causing fluorosis with lameness and reduced production. Manufacturing for feed grade includes defluorination, and the residual fluoride level is a mandatory specification point rather than an optional one.
2
Why is an insoluble phosphate used in animal feed?
Because insolubility is an advantage here. A soluble phosphate would leach out of a pellet, contribute taste and attract moisture. DCP stays put, is tasteless and does not cake, yet dissolves readily in the acidic conditions of the stomach so the animal can absorb the calcium and phosphorus.
3
What calcium to phosphorus ratio does DCP provide?
Close to the ratio bone mineral actually uses, which is why it is preferred over supplying calcium and phosphorus from separate sources. Getting that ratio wrong causes metabolic problems in livestock regardless of whether the absolute amounts are adequate, so a single source delivering both in proportion simplifies ration formulation.
4
Why is DCP used in toothpaste?
As a mild polishing abrasive. It is hard enough to remove plaque and surface stain but soft enough not to damage enamel, and being insoluble it does not dissolve in the paste or affect its flavour. The dihydrate form is the one normally used, and particle size is the specification that governs abrasivity.
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