On-farm research has highlighted key results, including improved colostrum quality, and calving ease, for spring-calving suckler cows fed a balanced ration.

In the farm trial, supported by Rumenco, cows fed a specifically formulated mineral crumb that includes vital vitamins and minerals, had a higher concentration of three key immunoglobulins than those fed a control diet.

Ross Sibbald, Rumenco area business manager for South Scotland and North East England, says it’s crucial to feed a nutritionally dense ration that provides enough energy and protein, as well as vital micro nutrition, to ensure cows and heifers are in the best condition before calving.

“This research confirmed this fact highlighting significant results.”

On-farm trial A total of 80 spring-calving suckler cows were split into two groups, all of a similar body condition. From four weeks prior to calving, one group were fed Lifeline Pre-Calver mineral crumb, the other a control diet containing a bespoke mineral.

Independent analysis of colostrum samples showed that colostrum from the cows fed the Lifeline Pre-Calver mineral crumb had an 18, 55 and 42 per cent higher concentration of IgA, IgM and IgG respectively compared to those fed the control diet.

“Immunoglobulins counteract foreign bodies and fight infection,” he says. “IgG, which makes up 75 to 80 per cent of the total immunoglobulins, is particularly important for passive immunity passed on to the calves via the placenta and in the colostrum.

“For the results of the trial to identify the elevated levels of three key immunoglobulins in the colostrum, it clearly shows the benefit of incorporating a mineral crumb, such as Lifeline Pre-Calver, into the ration to support the cow’s ability to produce a quality source of colostrum,” adds Mr Sibbald.