Diatoms are tiny single celled aquatic organisms. These tiny organisms are protected by a glassy shell. Diatoms take silicon dioxide from the water to form their shells. There are two types of Diatomaceous Earth, one derived from salt water, the other from fresh water. The Diatomaceous Earth that is mined for use today was formed in prehistoric times when much of the earth was covered with water. As the water receded and the diatoms died, vast deposits of skeletal remains were compressed into formations called diatomite.

Diatomaceous Earth is produced by mining and milling (crushing) diatomite. The way in which each type of Diatomaceous Earth is processed dictates the possible uses. Filter grind has long crystalline structures which can cause injury if inhaled or ingested. The type used for swimming pool filters has been partially melted and chemically treated. Diatomaceous Earth is also a powerful absorbent, used in industry for that purpose. Food grade Diatomaceous Earth is used as a binding agent or inert carrier in foods, pills, toothpastes etc. It is listed in the ingredients as Silicon Dioxide.

Diatomaceous Earth is used in agriculture as a feed supplement in sheep, goats, chickens, ducks, turkeys, pigs, horses and bison. WHITE EARTH contains several essential trace minerals.

In Canada and the U.S., Diatomaceous Earth is approved for use in agriculture in two very different ways: a. to be used as an inert carrier or anti-caking agent in feeds in an amount not to exceed 2% of the total diet. (CFIA) b. as an insecticide for use in stored grain and for the control of indoor and outdoor insects. (Pest Management Control Agency) Each product is packaged and labeled according to the governing agency requirements. The type of Diatomaceous Earth used in agriculture must be milled until it reaches the consistency of flour. It is then called amorphous silica or fossil shell flour. Under a powerful microscope the tiny sharp edges will be seen, but to the touch, it feels like chalk dust. When used as an insecticide, insects that come in contact with it or ingest it are lacerated and die from dehydration.

Diatomaceous Earth which can be fed to animals and is safe for humans as well is Amorphous Silica, the fresh water type, food grade quality. It is naturally white in colour resembling chalk dust with the texture of talcum powder. It is not chemically altered, treated or heated in any way.

WHITE EARTH is a 100% natural Diatomaceous Earth product. It is a fresh water type, food grade quality, Amorphous Silica, naturally white in colour, imported from Nevada.