Des Moines – October 14, 2026 -- The U.S. FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine has approved Kemin Industries' chromium propionate as a source of organic chromium in broiler breeder chicken and laying hen diets, extending its approved use to seven animal categories.
Chromium propionate is now cleared for swine, broiler chickens, cattle, horses, growing turkeys, broiler breeder chickens and laying hens. Kemin says its KemTRACE® Chromium is the only FDA-reviewed source of chromium propionate on the market and has been fed to millions of animals worldwide.
Kemin's research base of more than 30 years supported the FDA decision
Kemin conducted the research that served as the basis for the approval. The company says peer-reviewed studies across species show chromium can reduce cortisol, the hormone secreted in response to stress. That reduction may limit the effects of stress events such as extreme heat or cold, diet changes and disease challenges.
KemTRACE Chromium is a bioavailable organic source of chromium propionate that helps stabilize insulin receptors, improving glucose utilization. Kemin links better glucose utilization to potential gains in immune response, health and performance.
Poultry trials show higher egg output in breeders and stable quality in layers
Broiler breeders supplemented with KemTRACE Chromium during peak production over an 84-day feeding period showed increased egg production. Fertility and hatchability were not significantly affected.
Laying hens fed the product during peak production maintained egg quality and livability over a 112-day feeding period. The studies also found supplementation safe at levels above the minimum concentration shown to enhance insulin sensitivity.
Kristi Krafka, Vice President of Regulatory Affairs and Quality Assurance at Kemin Animal Nutrition and Health – North America, said the approval lets Kemin offer the product to more producers, nutritionists and veterinarians. Dr. Jerry Spears, Professor Emeritus at North Carolina State University, who partnered with Kemin on the research, cited a growing body of evidence for chromium propionate across species.
Des Moines plant holds FSSC 22000 certification
KemTRACE Chromium is manufactured at Kemin's facility in Des Moines, Iowa. The site holds Food Safety System Certification (FSSC) 22000, recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative. The certification covers manufacturing of food ingredients used for further processing.