FOSSIL SHELL FLOUR -
(*otherwise known as DE or Diatomaceous Earth!)
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CAUTION: NOT ALL DE IS CREATED EQUAL!!!!!
I cannot stress this enough! If you go down to the local hardware store and buy a cheap bag of DE, you may be getting not only a poor quality of DE, but additional ingredients like insect “baits” to lure insects or additional “insecticides”.
Swimming pool variety is not safe for human or animal consumption, either, due to the way it’s processed and ingredients added.
Also, do not inhale DE because it’s just never a good idea to inhale powder into the lungs.
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FOSSIL SHELL FLOUR
[Pure Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth]
I first learned of diatomaceous earth when I was searching for a non-toxic pest control for use around our home.
It’s fairly new to me so I’d encourage you to do your own research and use it at your own risk.
The reason I am offering this info is because some have read it can be used to prevent bugs in grains but I’ve never used it in that capacity so do not take this page to be an endorsement. I’m still learning about DE, it’s safety, it’s track record, etc.
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I’m big into wildlife. I even enjoy snakes, but when it comes to bugs in the house, my goal is to manage and control them well enough to avoid the use of toxic bug poisons.
In our area, there are large “roach-like” creatures called Palmetto bugs. They don’t seem to multiply as quickly as the common roaches, but they will race across the floors and counter tops of your home if given the chance!
I’ve used DE to control them for several years now. Last year I cleaned out one attic, vacuumed debris, then sprinkled a fine layer of powdered DE around cracks and crevices. We’ve seen good results from that one application, which should last indefinitely - long as it stays dry.
So this is my limited experience with DE.
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WHY is DE my preference?
DE kills bugs MECHANICALLY – not chemically! They say it’s like swatting a fly with a fly swatter!
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WHAT is DE?
DE is mined from beds of prehistoric fossils called diatoms. I was told the source for this DE is in Nevada and it’s a prehistoric freshwater lake bed deposit. It is said to resemble a white mountain with some DE above ground and some DE below ground. All they do is mine it, crush it, sift it and bag it.
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HOW do microscopic diatom cells work in the DE?
Their prehistoric “cells” are shaped with angles, thus when a Palmetto bug walks through the powder, it scratches their hard shell microscopically, allowing necessary bodily fluids to evaporate. They just dry out.
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Regarding the use of DE in animal care, when I asked the difference between this and “clay”, I believe I understood them to say that both clay and DE have a negative “charge”. The bad guys (*i.e. bacteria, etc.) have a positive charge hence they are “attracted” to either the clay or the DE, stick to either, and are carried out of the body. I have no way to “prove” this theory, but that’s the way I understood it, ok?
The way they are different is that while clay absorbs fluids, the diatom cells in DE are hard substances. As I understand it, their hard edges aren’t hard or strong enough to harm the intestinal tract, but will harm the outsides of tiny things like some bugs, bacteria and parasites.
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WHY did I choose this company?
They have been dealing with DE for over 40 years!
Their booklet says, “In 1962, The Perma-Guard™ Company with the help of Arizona State University, was granted a patent for the use of Diatomaceous Earth (DE) to be added to animal food. The Perma-Guard™ Company is the original, oldest, largest, and most experienced company selling DE for agricultural applications.”
They go on to say, “Wallace Tharp, former CEO of Perma-Guard™, first discovered Perma-Guard™ products in 1965. He devoted more than 40 years to researching and demonstrating the many uses of Diatomaceous Earth for use in animal feed, to protect stored grain from insects and (with natural Pyrethrum) as an insecticide for virtually any insect problems.”
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This is an entire write-up taken directly from them! All words belong to them!
FOSSIL SHELL FLOUR
[Pure Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth]
“Why the name Fossil Shell Flour? It was important to differentiate our product from all other diatomaceous earth products in the marketplace. Our DE is milled at a consistency much like flour and is a fossilized shell (diatom) hence the name Fossil Shell Flour.”
“All diatomaceous earth is not the same. Diatomaceous earth packaged under our Fossil Shell Flour label comes from an extremely pure water deposit of the diatom Melosira Preicelanica. Why is this diatom so special? It’s shell is made of amorphous silica. It’s shape and hardness are important to how it works. It’s hardness keeps it from dissolving in liquid. The holes along the diatom’s wall allow it to absorb moisture, hence it’s use as an anti-caking agent. It’s shape is key to it’s action in our insecticide products, discussed on those product pages. “
“Why fresh water vs. salt water DE? Fresh water deposits like ours have a consistent diatom presence. Their fossilized shells have maintained their tubular shape. This shape and strength of the fossil shell is critical to it’s effectiveness. Our deposit has 89 - 95 percent amorphous silica content. This deposit is also more consistent in it’s purity of other elements that have settled in it. A fresh water deposit is confined to the run off water of it’s surrounding environment. A fresh water deposit in the mountains, such as ours, formed when snow was pure and it’s run off provided the water source these diatoms lived in. Salt water deposits contain a mix of types of diatoms of different shapes. Their fossilized shells are fragile and break easily. This renders them ineffective for our purposes. The salt water deposits are less predictable in their sediments.”
“What’s the difference between amorphous and crystalline silica? Amorphous silica is silica in it’s natural occurring state. It is a trace mineral every mammal on the planet needs to live. It becomes crystalline when it is exposed to extreme heat through volcanic activity or commercial manufacturing means. The type of diatomaceous earth used in swimming pool, and other, filtration systems is crystalline silica. Crystalline silica is extremely dangerous when inhaled or ingested. It is not biodegradable.”
“Perma-Guard Fossil Shell Flour [Pure Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth] has been reviewed and is now listed with the Organic Materials Review Institute.”
“In the course of marketing our Fossil Shell Flour as an anti-caking agent, we have been astonished by the benefits claimed by long-term users.
They are as follows: “
* Completely safe and nontoxic
* Stimulates basic metabolism
* Converts feed better
* Reduces odor and moisture in barns and stalls
* Results in better coat and/or hoof condition
* Cost effective
* Reduces annual vet bills
* Reduces overall animal stress
Suggested feeding instructions:
“Add 2% of the weight of the feed rations. It doesn’t have to be exact. University tests have shown that more will not be harmful, but less may not give you the results expected.”
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Customer remarks about Fossil Shell Flour, taken directly from the DE website. (I do not know any of these people):
Our customers have built our business by recommending our products to their friends. A customer who has used the product for years is Frank Zimmerman of Tucson, Arizona - there is no way of guessing how many people use Fossil Shell Flour because he recommended it to them. Over 35 years ago, in Kansas, he fed it to his dairy cows and all other animals one would find around a farm. After selling out and moving to Arizona, he fed it to the Quarter horses he raised on his A to Z Farm. Frank freely recommends Perma-Guard Fossil Shell Flour to all his contacts. Anyone wishing to talk to Frank is free to call.
The next longest use we know of is James Hussey (deceased). Mr. Hussey used the Fossil Shell Flour over 28 years on his dairy herd. He wrote us two testimonial letters 25 years apart, detailing the benefits from adding Fossil Shell Flour to his rations. Mr. Hussey was President of the Arizona Dairyman’s Association for many years and exhibited his stock at the Arizona State Fair for 70 years. The City of Phoenix grew up around his dairy, but he had no fly or odor problems and the benefits to his animals and his business was very positive. Anyone wanting copies of his letters is welcome to request them from us.
Dr. Phillip Schaible, while heading the Department of Poultry Sciences at Michigan State University, made a study of European literature regarding adding Diatomaceous Earth to dairy cows’ feed. [Please contact us for a copy of the report]
Dr. C.S. Hansen, D.V.M., with some 8,000 chickens, kept half on regular diet, added Fossil Shell Flour to the other group. The Fossil Shell Flour group immediately had a lower death rate, egg production went up, and egg breakage went way down. His profitability went way up.
Dr. H.D. Johnson, D.V.M., Saskatchewan Vet Clinic, Canada, worked with 2,000 calves for two years without a single case of scours, using Fossil Shell Flour. He says, "using Fossil Shell Flour, we have been able to eliminate vaccines and antibiotics."
Dr. M.F. Petty, D.V.M.: "The use of Fossil Shell Flour stopped pigs from rooting and chewing feeder boxes, reduced manure odor and increased feed efficiency. Really improved profitability."
Capitol South Syndicate by Dan Miller, manager: "Feeding Fossil Shell Flour to my show and race horses, stallions, mares, foals and horses in training, we have seen improvements in their hair coat and their attitude. Flies and parasites are less of a problem."
Leslie "Shorty" Thomas, Trainer, L Frank Roper Stables, Winter Garden, Florida: "I have been actively engaged in training some of the finest walking horses in the country for the past 15 years. I take pride in the appearance and health of the horses under my care, which have won many national awards against stiff competition. I am constantly on the alert for products I feel can improve their health and condition. I am grateful to have found Fossil Shell Flour and here is why: It increased appetites, better feed conversion, and created a healthier appearance. I would definitely recommend this product to other horsemen."
Johnnie Firestone on sheep: "We were losing one sheep every three days. We started feeding the animals Fossil Shell Flour, mixed with salt and cotton seed meal. Within two weeks the dying stopped. Since that time we have lost two sheep. To say that I am sold on Fossil Shell Flour is a rank understatement. I suggest to anyone, ’just try it. It does not cost much!’"
Michigan Department of Agriculture made a laboratory study of internal organs from a cow using Fossil Shell Flour five years and found no visible evidence of abnormalities.
University of Illinois, referring to tests run on dairy cattle fed 2% of Fossil Shell Flour in their rations, stated there was no apparent harmful effect and that there was no evidence of the DE in the milk.
Frank Mead of Nevada, using Fossil Shell Flour on a variety of animals has done some tests, keeping excellent records and with detailed pictures that show the benefits that can be expected from the use of the products. Frank welcomes inquiries.
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Products, Descriptions & Uses, & Prices
I can get larger sizes, if you are interested, but since shipping will be high, I’ve included only the smaller bags. These include a little shipping to get it to the store since it’s coming from all the way across country,but it is MUCH less than you’d pay by buying direct from them.
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PERMA-GUARD FOSSIL SHELL FLOUR
(Animal Feed is the “notation” given, but my understanding is it is the same one you can mix with grain.)
* 1 pound bag = $8.95
(*This would be $13.47 if you were to buy it yourself, direct from them!)
* 5 pound bag = $19.95
(*This would be $24.36 if you bought direct from them – we’re saving you money when we can!)
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PERMA-GUARD GRAIN STORAGE D-10
*This is the same as the Perma-Guard Fossil Shell Flour, which is a food grade DE (Animal Feed), but it is a little more expensive because it is a “registered” product for those selling grain for animal feed, etc.)
* 1 pound bag = $9.95
* 5 pound bag = $20.95
This company writes, in their literature and on their website….
Throughout the history of humankind, one of the major problems is having to share our grain with insects. Various methods have had different levels of success, but modern people thought they had the answer when they started manufacturing toxic, persistent and deadly chemicals.
At first it seemed to work, but two things began to happen. People began to develop illnesses from the residues of these chemicals left in the grain they used for food. Also, the insects began to develop immunity to any chemical, regardless of how toxic.
In 1962, the PERMA-GUARD COMPANY acquired a patent on the use of our pure Diatomaceous Earth, which, when added to grain killed the bugs that were present, and protected the grain from further invasions. The bugs could not become immune - they were killed by physical action - not chemical!
Perma-Guard’s Grain or Seed Storage when added to the grain so that every kernel is coated, can protect the grain for as long as needed. Instead of re-treating grain every six months as the chemical people do, Perma-Guard Grain Protectant need be added only once, regardless of how long the storage lasts.
When the grain is to be used, Perma-Guards Grain or Seed Storage can be easily removed, but need not be. It makes no difference in taste or in cooking quality.
USE IN STORAGE:
1 cup of DE will protect 50 lbs of grain
5 lbs of DE will protect 1500 lbs of grain
7 lbs of DE will protect 2000 lbs of grain or seed
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By the way, as I understand it, the Household, Pet & Fire Ant bottles contain the exact same stuff.
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PERMA-GUARD HOUSEHOLD D-20
* 5 oz. Puffer bottle - $ 14.95
(*This product would be $19.24 if you bought it direct from them! More savings!)
All this information comes directly from the DE company.
For control of roaches, silverfish, ants, bedbugs, flies, fleas, box elder bugs, scorpions, crickets, and many others! Perma-Guard Household products are licensed to be used in and around the home, yard, animal housing, etc.
Dry Application: for small areas can be accomplished by using Perma-Guards Household puffer bottle. But for major infestations we suggest you use the Pest-Pistol applicator and purchase a one or two pound bag, depending upon the size of your home.
Roaches and Silverfish
· In most cases, general application is not needed, but one needs to give localized attention to cracks and crevices, under stoves and refrigerators, and in likely hiding places. Be sure to treat around sinks and drain pipes.
· If there is an opening into the sewer line, blow a considerable amount of product into the line. Being closed, air pressure forces the dust further down the line, coating the upper half of the pipe, leaving no safe place for roaches. This protection exists as far as the line is coated.
· For major infestations it is important to dust the attic, crawl space underneath the house, in the walls as much as possible, and in the garage. The Pest Pistol applicator is the best way to get access to the walls. The Spritzer is the best way to dust the attic, crawl space, and garage.
Crickets, Scorpions, and Box Elder Bugs
· Lightly dust areas around windows, doors and other places where pests may enter.
Fleas
· Animal Application: Apply Perma-Guard Pet and Animal Insecticide at the same time you treat the house.
· Rugs and Furniture: Make a thin coating on the rugs and furniture. Rake (not sweep) nap back and forth, causing dust to enter the rug. Leave overnight. When cleaning, do not make a special effort to remove the dust in the rug. It will kill live fleas and repel others. It must be reapplied 7-10 days later to kill any eggs that may hatch.
Flies
· Lightly coat window sills so flies lighting will contact the dust. If the outside walls of the house, shrubbery, outbuildings (such as barns, stables, kennels or corrals) are dusted flies are greatly reduced. Repeat if needed.
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PERMA-GUARD PET & ANIMAL D-20
* 5 oz. Puffer bottle - $ 14.95
Your best friends come in all shapes and sizes. Protect them with Perma-Guard! Effective against fleas, ticks, lice, and other pests on pet dogs, cats, their premises, and other warm-blooded animals subject to these parasites.
Perma-Guard Pet & Animal product is licensed to be used in and around the home, yard, animal housing, etc. It can be applied as a dry dust, or mixed as a solution for lawns.
Dry Application
Cover the affected area with Perma-Guard Pet & Animal Powder at the rate of 8 oz. to 16 oz. per 1,000 sq. ft.
Fleas, Ticks, and Lice
Lightly work the material into the hair of the animal. A light, even dusting is all that is necessary [more is not better]. Use brush or comb to work the material down to the skin. Pay strict attention to places where the animal cannot reach, such as the scalp. Dust the ears of the animal with care to avoid dusting the inner ear canal. Dust the animal’s bedding and areas where the animal sleeps, as well as cracks and crevices adjacent to them. Repeat once a month or as necessary to kill fleas that hatch 7-10 days after first application. The product only kills hatched fleas, it does not kill existing eggs. Individual ticks observed on the animal should be dusted thoroughly.
Premise Application
For animals confined to a specific area infested with fleas and ticks, dust the entire area with Perma-Guard Pet & Animal Powder.
Large Application Areas
We suggest you use the Spritzer or the Dustin-Mizer for application over large areas. At the time you fertize your yard you can add 16 oz Perma-Guard Pet & Animal Powder per 1000 feet. Dust thoroughly the first time and then periodically reapply as needed.
Wet Application
Mix with water at the rate of 2 oz. per quart of water (one oz. is about 8 level teaspoons). To help keep it in suspension, add one teaspoon of mild detergent and agitate the sprayer now and then while applying. The sprayer apparatus people commonly use that attaches to your garden hose for fertilizer applications will work perfectly.
Re-infestation
Prevent re-infestation by keeping Perma-Guard Pet & Animal Powder in the pet or animal’s coat as a repellent.
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PERMA-GUARD GARDEN & PLANT D-21
* 5 oz. Puffer bottle - $ 14.95
For control of aphids, whitefly, beetles, loopers, mites, leaf hoppers, and others! For use in the greenhouse or outdoors on fruits, vegetables, flowers, grains and grass--up to and including day of harvest.
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Applicators:
A good dust applicator is essential. The
puffer bottle is adequate for indoors and outdoor potted plants. The Spritzer and Dustin-Mizer is best for garden applications, shrubs, etc. A variety of units are available, from small hand held units, to backpacks.
Dry Application:
The goal is to get coverage over the entire plant, especially under the leaves. For young plants, as little as two pounds per acre may be adequate. For larger plants, 5 lb/acre is probably sufficient. With extra growth, it might be necessary to increase the amount. An examination of the leaves will tell if the leaf bottom is covered.
Wet Application:
For large gardens or acreage some may want to use a wet spray apparatus. The purpose is to get a solution that will flow easily through the nozzle and still put the recommended amount of product per acre. It is essential to get coverage on the underside of the leaf.
Mixing Instructions
* Minimum: 4 tablespoons to 1 gal. water
* Maximum: 1 lb. to 25 gals. water
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