About this episode

Dr. Alberto Lopez discusses the importance of colostrum management for calf immunity and the impact of dilution on IgG absorption.

Arguably the most important first step in the life of any calf is successful establishment of passive immunity through colostrum management. This key touchpoint ensures easy newborn calf management for weeks in the future and improved pay price for your bull calves. Colostrum replacers occasionally need fed, for a variety of reasons. Understanding the key details of absorption, allows colostrum replacer manufacturers to optimize their product and therefore your success. How does dilution impact the absorption of the colostrum replacer, based on the rate of abomasal emptying? Does this impact the calf’s IgG absorption and ultimately success of passive transfer? Listen in to Dr. Alberto Lopez has he describes the results of his recently released research and observations from the field. Topics of discussion 1:43 Introduction of Dr. Alberto Lopez 2:39 Project design/treatments 3:08 150 IgG replacer used4:55 Different CR products on the market 5:23 Osmolarity in colostrum6:44 Maternal colostrum enhancement – impact on osmolarity 8:17 Path of colostrum once it leaves the tube 8:33 High osmolarity takes longer to feed, and digest9:58 Should producers measure osmolarity? 11:17 Measuring…

More episodes of Dairy Science Digest

• DSD 7.6 | Reduce input costs AND improve performance in 1st calf heifers · June 17, 2026 · 32 min

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Dairy Science Digest podcast page.