Can "Non-Food Grade "DE (Diatomaceous Earth) be used for dust batchs?

[kiaya611]

Hi,

I bought some (non-food grade) DE (Diatomaceous Earth) for use around the garden and have read that DE is good for dust baths for chickens.

Can I use non-food grade DE for dust batchs and in the coop on the ground/straw for control of mites etc.?...or do I need food grade?

Please let me know your experiences.

Thank you,

 

[kcfuerst]

I recommend Food grade only. It is safe for animals and people as there are no extra added chemicals.

 

[jessupfamily]

Non-food grade isn't good for animals, people or food (gardens). Here's something another member posted in another thread:

COMMON SENSE PEST CONTROL QUARTERLY, published by BIRC, Volume III, Number 1, Winter 1987:

“Both swimming pool grade and natural diatomaceous earth come from the same fossil sources but they are processed differently. The natural grades are mined, dried, ground, sled and bagged. The pool grade is chemically treated and partially melted and consequently contains crystalline silica which can be a respiratory hazard. Thus, IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT ONLY NATURAL DIATOMACEOUS EARTH BE USED FOR INSECT CONTROL. This noncrystalline silica is not a hazard as the human body apparently can dissolve it. “

“Silicosis refers to lung contamination and irritation by crystalline of free silica (Si02). Crystalline describes the orientation of the Si02 molecules which occur in a fixed pattern in contrast to the non periodic, random molecular arrangement defined as amorphous. Exposure to free silica is an occupational hazard to workers. “
Amy J.

 

[jimnjay]

The only thing I would use it for is to put in ant hills or in corners of the garage. It kills ants better than anything I know. Not good for using on your animals.

 

[MTchick]

Only go with food grade. Non-food grade is actually a human carcinogen (can cause lung cancer) so I wouldn't get it anywhere near your chicken's respiratory tracts by letting them dust bathe in it.

-MTchick