Description
We all know colostrum quality is important for the resistance and development of the calf. Colostrum is also called white gold, because the calf receives its first antibodies through this route. The refractometer shows the Brix value of the colostrum. This is 1:1 with the dry matter content in the colostrum. Regular cow’s milk has a Brix value between 11 – 16 percent. Good colostrum has a Brix value higher than 23.
Measuring colostrum quality is very important to know whether colostrum management is in order. If colostrum management could be improved, analyse the nutrition in the dry period and around calving.
Practical tips:
Keeps track of colostrum quality. For example, At some customers places we see a colostrum management WhatsApp group in which this is kept up to date. A simple agenda or note in your mobile phone are also good examples to assess colostrum quality over a longer period.
