Uses for Food Grade Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is actually the shells of prehistoric one-celled plants. As these plants died, they left behind their outer shell. The remains of the shells are found today under the sea or in dried lake beds. The diatom shells are harvested and milled. Diatomaceous earth can be found in various applications.

  1. Livestock Feed

    • Food-grade diatomaceous earth can be helpful, in various ways, on the farm.

      Food-grade diatomaceous earth can be mixed with livestock feed to control meal worms and other pests. It can also prevent caking of the feed when it is mixed in with it. Since it is food-grade, it is harmless to the livestock.

    Abrasive

    • Food-grade diatomaceous earth can be found in many toothpastes.

      Diatomaceous earth has an abrasive quality about it. As a result, it is often used in toothpaste, facial scrubs and metal polishes. It can also be used by itself as a facial cleaner by mixing it with water until a paste is created. This paste is applied to the face, then rinsed off.

    Pest control

    • Food-grade diatomaceous earth is an effective insecticide. When it comes in contact with an insect, the pest will become dehydrated and die. It is common to find this product used to take care of slug problems.

    Absorbent

    • The absorbent quality of food-grade diatomaceous earth has multiplied its uses. It helps with oil spills, takes the form of kitty litter around the house or can even be found in facial masks to help with oil control.