Feeding Colostrum for Calf Immunity and Resilience Dairy Insight

Colostrum is the all-important first feed that provides calves with a protective coat to guard against disease. Calves are born naïve without any circulating antibodies, which is why the first few weeks of life can be the highest risk for mortality. Good colostrum management can help to prevent losses in early life. Yet passive transfer remains poor. In one Scottish study, serum samples collected across 38 farms showed 60% of calves failed to absorb sufficient colostral antibodies1.

This dairy insight lifts the lid on the latest research from across the globe on colostrum feeding to help you reduce disease risk and get calves on track for good early-life growth.

Issued June 2026

About Kingshay insight publications

Kingshay has been producing bi-monthly publications for dairy farmers since 1991. Publishing on issues critical to the success of a modern dairy farming business.

These briefings include dairy insight, business insight and research insight, they provide dairy farmers, large animal vets, farm consultants and other interested parties with the most vital and timely information in a concise two-page format. The information contained in our insight publications is written and updated by our experts to ensure accuracy and to save you time.

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