Symposium review: Colostrum management and calf nutrition for profitable and sustainable dairy farms

摘要

Multistate dairy management research project NC-2042, which is part of the National Institute of Foodand Agriculture, has devoted an ongoing objective tocalf and heifer nutrition and management. Within thisobjective, colostrum research has been a priority dueto continued opportunities to improve this area on USdairy farms. Research has focused on heating colostrumto reduce bacterial populations and pathogens whileincreasing IgG absorption. Research also identifiedother proteins that are reduced when heating colostrum.Studies indicated an apparent upper limit to IgGabsorption from colostrum fed to calves. Additionalstudies have shed light on absorption of IgG from colostrumreplacers and evaluated the use of lactoferrin andsodium bicarbonate in both maternal colostrum andcolostrum replacers. Milk replacer formulation, feedingstrategies, and the effect of calfhood nutrition on futureperformance have also been researched. Finally, waterquality and its effect on calves and heifers have beenstudied. This review focuses on research done by multistateresearch project NC-2042 member states in thearea of colostrum and calf nutrition and management.