Bone meal
Bone meal
Bone meal (pronunciation: /boʊn miːl/) is a mixture of finely and coarsely ground animal bones and slaughter-house waste products. It is used as an organic fertilizer for plants and as a nutritional supplement for animals. As a slow-release fertilizer, bone meal is primarily used as a source of phosphorus and protein.
Etymology
The term "bone meal" is derived from the fact that the product is made up of ground animal bones, often from slaughterhouses. The word "bone" comes from the Old English bān, which has roots in many Germanic languages. The word "meal" in this context refers to a coarse ground substance and comes from the Old English mǣl, meaning a measure or a time for eating.
Composition
Bone meal is made from the raw bones of animals that have been cooked, sterilized, and ground into a fine powder. The primary nutrients provided by bone meal are phosphorus, calcium, and a small amount of nitrogen. The exact composition can vary, depending on the type of bones used and the method of preparation.
Uses
Bone meal is commonly used in gardening and agriculture as a slow-release source of phosphorus, which is vital for plant growth and development. It can also be used as a supplement in animal feed due to its high protein content and readily available minerals.
Safety and Environmental Concerns
While bone meal is generally safe for use in gardens and farms, there are some safety and environmental concerns associated with its production and use. These include the potential for transmission of diseases like Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE), also known as mad cow disease, and the environmental impact of sourcing and processing animal bones.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bone meal
- Wikipedia's article - Bone meal
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