Quality Assessment of Bovine Colostrum and Possible Applications in the Dairy Industry

Abstract

Colostrum is a mammary gland fluid that is produced and secreted throughout the last trimester of pregnancy and the first few days following calving. Colostrum aids in the growth, development, and protection of the new-born calves' immune system. In order for the immunoglobulins to be effective, colostrum it must be given to the new-born within the first few hours of life. Lab tests for IgG levels may be quite precise, but they are time-consuming and not always accessible to farmers. Colostrometer and refractometers could be foreseen as promising tools in the estimation of IgG for distinguishing colostrum of high quality. This paper describes quick methods for evaluating colostrum quality and prospective uses of colostrum in the dairy industry.