MINNEAPOLIS - A&L Laboratories recently introduced Sani-Bed IIÔ, a long-lasting animal bedding additive that quickly absorbs ammonia and dries bedding to inhibit bacterial growth and reduce mastitis, environmentally caused lameness and fly problems. Sani-Bed II is chlorine free and has a spreadable granular texture that is less dusty and penetrates bedding better than the original Sani-Bed. In addition, it comes in an upgraded easy-to-use and store box.

“Sani-Bed II creates a drier, bacteriostatic environment that helps prevent mastitis-causing bacteria from growing and entering cow teats as the animal lies down,” says Roger Beers, president and CEO of A&L Laboratories. Reducing mastitis, one of the costliest diseases in U.S. agriculture, helps dairy producers improve their profits in several ways. Lower mastitis rates cut down on veterinary costs and discarded milk. It also returns higher milk premiums due to lower somatic cell count levels.

Compared with lime, faster acting Sani-Bed II absorbs more ammonia and moisture, and maintains antibacterial control for several days.

Use Sani-Bed II on mats and concrete stalls, plus in bed packing areas and calf hutches and pens. “Many producers like to use organic bedding, such as straw, sawdust and recycled manure, because it’s more comfortable for the cow and often times less expensive than sand,” notes Beers. “However, organic beddings provide an optimal environment for bacteria growth.  Inorganic bedding, such as sand, doesn’t promote bacteria growth, but it requires a sand/manure separator and extra labor. Using Sani-Bed II allows producers to benefit from the best of both types of bedding. The comfort, low cost and recyclability of organic bedding, as well as the antibacterial benefit of inorganic beddings.”

Sani-Bed II is also more cost effective than other treatments because the amount used and frequency of application is much less than lime or clay. And there is no equipment investment needed.

Since 1951, A&L Laboratories has been helping protect the world’s food supply by developing and manufacturing quality cleaners, sanitizers and hygiene products for the dairy farm market and the food industry. A&L Laboratories is a subsidiary of HYPRED Ltd.