ARS-Media utilizes a linear programming optimization algorithm to determine the combination of salts, acids, and bases that satisfies any given target solution of ions allowing researchers to construct experimental designs that use ions as individual factors and, hence, experimentally determine ion-specific effects on biological responses.

This database was developed by the [Feed Composition Sub-Committee](https://animalnutrition.org/node/38) and serves as a freely-available, centralized resource for up-to-date nutrient composition data for feedstuffs commonly fed to animal species. There are currently 123 ingredients and 129 nutrients represented in the database.