{"product_id":"salt-nacl-free-choice-mineral-buffet","title":"Salt (NaCl) Mineral Refill Pack","description":"\u003cp data-start=\"162\" data-end=\"577\"\u003eSalt (NaCl) is the foundational electrolyte mineral required for hydration balance, nerve transmission, muscle contraction, digestion, and overall metabolic stability. This Salt (NaCl) Refill Pack is designed specifically for use in a Free-Choice Mineral Buffet \/ Free-Choice Mineral Bar system so animals can self-select sodium and chloride intake based on climate, workload, forage type, and physiological demand.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"579\" data-end=\"770\"\u003eSweet Medicine Farm offers Salt as part of a Free-Choice Mineral Buffet \/ Free-Choice Mineral Bar, so animals can self-select based on real-time needs instead of a one-size-fits-all approach.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"772\" data-end=\"814\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"816\" data-end=\"869\"\u003eWhy Salt Matters in a Free-Choice Mineral Buffet\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"871\" data-end=\"950\"\u003eSalt provides both sodium and chloride, two primary electrolytes that regulate:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"952\" data-end=\"1159\"\u003e• Fluid balance inside and outside cells\u003cbr data-start=\"992\" data-end=\"995\"\u003e• Nerve impulse transmission\u003cbr data-start=\"1023\" data-end=\"1026\"\u003e• Muscle contraction and coordination\u003cbr data-start=\"1063\" data-end=\"1066\"\u003e• Stomach acid production (hydrochloric acid)\u003cbr data-start=\"1111\" data-end=\"1114\"\u003e• Rumen fluid balance and saliva production\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1161\" data-end=\"1403\"\u003eIn pasture-based herd mineral programs, salt is frequently deficient in forage. Rapidly growing pasture contains high moisture and potassium levels but typically low sodium content. High rainfall regions often experience soil sodium leaching.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1405\" data-end=\"1434\"\u003eSalt demand increases during:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1436\" data-end=\"1580\"\u003e• Hot and humid weather\u003cbr data-start=\"1459\" data-end=\"1462\"\u003e• Heavy sweat loss in performance horses\u003cbr data-start=\"1502\" data-end=\"1505\"\u003e• Lactation\u003cbr data-start=\"1516\" data-end=\"1519\"\u003e• Rapid pasture growth\u003cbr data-start=\"1541\" data-end=\"1544\"\u003e• High potassium forage conditions\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1582\" data-end=\"1830\"\u003eRuminants rely on sodium for proper rumen buffering through saliva production. Horses lose significant sodium through sweat during work and heat exposure. In both cases, free access to salt is critical for maintaining hydration and feed efficiency.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"1832\" data-end=\"1874\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"1876\" data-end=\"1919\"\u003eRegional Trends \u0026amp; Mineral Interactions\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1921\" data-end=\"1990\"\u003eSalt intake is strongly influenced by climate and forage composition.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1992\" data-end=\"2217\"\u003e• High rainfall regions often produce low-sodium forage\u003cbr data-start=\"2047\" data-end=\"2050\"\u003e• High potassium pasture can increase sodium requirement\u003cbr data-start=\"2106\" data-end=\"2109\"\u003e• Heat stress elevates sodium and chloride loss\u003cbr data-start=\"2156\" data-end=\"2159\"\u003e• Stored hay retains the sodium level present at harvest\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2219\" data-end=\"2449\"\u003eSodium and chloride function together. Chloride supports stomach acid production, which is essential for proper protein digestion. Sodium works alongside potassium and magnesium to maintain electrolyte balance and muscle function.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2451\" data-end=\"2624\"\u003eBecause electrolyte balance shifts seasonally, a self-selection mineral program allows animals to adjust intake naturally in response to environmental and metabolic changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2626\" data-end=\"2731\"\u003eWater availability is essential. Salt intake must always be paired with continuous access to clean water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"2733\" data-end=\"2775\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"2777\" data-end=\"2822\"\u003eWhat Low Salt Availability May Look Like\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2824\" data-end=\"2909\"\u003eSigns often appear behaviorally before they appear clinically. Producers may observe:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2911\" data-end=\"3091\"\u003e• Reduced appetite\u003cbr data-start=\"2929\" data-end=\"2932\"\u003e• Decreased milk production\u003cbr data-start=\"2959\" data-end=\"2962\"\u003e• Lethargy or reduced performance\u003cbr data-start=\"2995\" data-end=\"2998\"\u003e• Rough hair coat\u003cbr data-start=\"3015\" data-end=\"3018\"\u003e• Pica behavior such as chewing wood or soil\u003cbr data-start=\"3062\" data-end=\"3065\"\u003e• Lower feed utilization\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3093\" data-end=\"3239\"\u003eAnimals instinctively seek salt when deficient. In a Free-Choice Mineral Buffet system, this natural behavior becomes a reliable intake regulator.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"3241\" data-end=\"3283\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"3285\" data-end=\"3346\"\u003eWhy the Free-Choice Mineral Buffet Approach Is Different\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3348\" data-end=\"3517\"\u003eSalt requirements vary by species, climate, workload, lactation status, and forage mineral profile. Fixed inclusion rates cannot account for daily environmental changes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3519\" data-end=\"3633\"\u003eThis product is designed exclusively for Buffet-only use within a Free-Choice Mineral Buffet \/ Mineral Bar system.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3635\" data-end=\"3638\"\u003eIt:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3640\" data-end=\"3967\"\u003e• Supports self-selection minerals across horses, goats, cattle, bison, deer, elk, and sheep\u003cbr data-start=\"3732\" data-end=\"3735\"\u003e• Allows animals to regulate electrolyte balance seasonally\u003cbr data-start=\"3794\" data-end=\"3797\"\u003e• Avoids forced, uniform supplementation\u003cbr data-start=\"3837\" data-end=\"3840\"\u003e• Integrates into a broader herd mineral program\u003cbr data-start=\"3888\" data-end=\"3891\"\u003e• Fits regenerative livestock systems where forage variability is expected\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"3969\" data-end=\"4052\"\u003eImportant: This is for Buffet use only. Do not top-dress or mix into feed or water.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"4054\" data-end=\"4096\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"4098\" data-end=\"4113\"\u003eHow to Use\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4115\" data-end=\"4138\"\u003ePlacement \u0026amp; Setup\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4140\" data-end=\"4450\"\u003e• Offer in a clean, dry compartment within your Free-Choice Mineral Buffet\u003cbr data-start=\"4214\" data-end=\"4217\"\u003e• Keep protected from moisture, manure splash, and contamination\u003cbr data-start=\"4281\" data-end=\"4284\"\u003e• Place in a calm, low-traffic area where all animals can access comfortably\u003cbr data-start=\"4360\" data-end=\"4363\"\u003e• Provide adequate space to prevent dominant animals from blocking timid herd members\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4452\" data-end=\"4562\"\u003eMineral access is behavioral ecology. Salt intake should reflect biological demand rather than herd hierarchy.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4564\" data-end=\"4591\"\u003eMaintenance \u0026amp; Storage\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4593\" data-end=\"4879\"\u003e• Refill regularly and maintain at least half-full compartments\u003cbr data-start=\"4656\" data-end=\"4659\"\u003e• Refresh and stir if clumping occurs\u003cbr data-start=\"4696\" data-end=\"4699\"\u003e• Maintain clean compartments to prevent cross-contamination\u003cbr data-start=\"4759\" data-end=\"4762\"\u003e• Store refills in a cool, dry location away from direct sunlight\u003cbr data-start=\"4827\" data-end=\"4830\"\u003e• Ensure fresh, clean water is always available\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"4881\" data-end=\"4906\"\u003eTransition Guidance\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"4908\" data-end=\"5156\"\u003eWhen first introducing a Free-Choice Mineral Buffet system, animals previously restricted in salt may show higher intake temporarily. Intake typically stabilizes within 2–6 weeks depending on climate, forage sodium levels, and prior mineral access.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5158\" data-end=\"5371\"\u003eAnimals should have continuous, unrestricted access to the Free-Choice Mineral Buffet at all times so they can adjust intake based on biological demand, forage shifts, reproductive stage, and environmental stress.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"5373\" data-end=\"5415\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"5417\" data-end=\"5455\"\u003eGuaranteed Analysis \u0026amp; Ingredients\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"5457\" data-end=\"5480\"\u003eRice Hull Carrier\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5482\" data-end=\"5532\"\u003eGuaranteed Analysis (per lb):\u003cbr data-start=\"5511\" data-end=\"5514\"\u003eSalt – 97% (Min)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5534\" data-end=\"5555\"\u003eIngredients:\u003cbr data-start=\"5546\" data-end=\"5549\"\u003eSalt\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3 data-start=\"5557\" data-end=\"5575\"\u003eSalt Carrier\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5577\" data-end=\"5627\"\u003eGuaranteed Analysis (per lb):\u003cbr data-start=\"5606\" data-end=\"5609\"\u003eSalt – 97% (Min)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5629\" data-end=\"5650\"\u003eIngredients:\u003cbr data-start=\"5641\" data-end=\"5644\"\u003eSalt\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"5652\" data-end=\"5694\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"5696\" data-end=\"5718\"\u003ePackaging Options\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5720\" data-end=\"5801\"\u003e• Resealable Bags: 0.5 lb, 1 lb, 2 lb, 5 lb, 10 lb, 15 lb\u003cbr data-start=\"5777\" data-end=\"5780\"\u003e• Bulk Boxes: 25 lb\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003chr data-start=\"5803\" data-end=\"5845\"\u003e\n\u003ch2 data-start=\"5847\" data-end=\"5875\"\u003eWhy Sweet Medicine Farm\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5877\" data-end=\"5964\"\u003eSweet Medicine Farm builds minerals around animal agency and practical herd management:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"5966\" data-end=\"6206\"\u003e• Designed specifically for the Free-Choice Mineral Buffet \/ Mineral Bar system\u003cbr data-start=\"6045\" data-end=\"6048\"\u003e• Clear labeling for simple, consistent refills\u003cbr data-start=\"6095\" data-end=\"6098\"\u003e• Built to match real pasture variability\u003cbr data-start=\"6139\" data-end=\"6142\"\u003e• Supports regenerative livestock and soil-conscious producers\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"6208\" data-end=\"6337\"\u003eThis is not a premix strategy. It is a mineral framework built for dynamic pasture systems and biologically responsive livestock.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Sweet Medicine Farm","offers":[{"title":"0.5 lb \/ Rice Hulls","offer_id":48381289267429,"sku":"NaCl-RH-0.5","price":3.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 lb \/ Rice Hulls","offer_id":48381289300197,"sku":"NaCl-RH-1","price":5.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"2 lb \/ Rice Hulls","offer_id":48381289332965,"sku":"NaCl-RH-2","price":9.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"5 lb \/ Rice Hulls","offer_id":48381289365733,"sku":"NaCl-RH-5","price":17.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"10 lb \/ Rice Hulls","offer_id":48381289398501,"sku":"NaCl-RH-10","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"15 lb \/ Rice Hulls","offer_id":48381289431269,"sku":"NaCl-RH-15","price":48.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"25 lb \/ Rice Hulls","offer_id":48381289464037,"sku":"NaCl-RH-25","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"0.5 lb \/ Salt","offer_id":48381289496805,"sku":"NaCl-S-0.5","price":3.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"1 lb \/ Salt","offer_id":48381289529573,"sku":"NaCl-S-1","price":5.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"2 lb \/ Salt","offer_id":48381289562341,"sku":"NaCl-S-2","price":9.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"5 lb \/ Salt","offer_id":48381289595109,"sku":"NaCl-S-5","price":17.5,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"10 lb \/ Salt","offer_id":48381289627877,"sku":"NaCl-S-10","price":35.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"15 lb \/ Salt","offer_id":48381289660645,"sku":"NaCl-S-15","price":48.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"25 lb \/ Salt","offer_id":48381289693413,"sku":"NaCl-S-25","price":75.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0801\/1802\/2373\/files\/free-choice-horse-mineral-refill-salt-sweet-medicine-farm.webp?v=1772902871","url":"https:\/\/sweetmedicinefarm.com\/products\/salt-nacl-free-choice-mineral-buffet","provider":"Sweet Medicine Farm","version":"1.0","type":"link"}