Performance of Calves Fed Fermented Colostrum or Colostrum with Additives During Warm Ambient Temperatures

Trials during warm ambient temperatures determined the feeding value of colostrum, either naturally fermented or with additives, for Holstein calves. During a preliminary trial, calves fed whole milk gained two-fold more weight the first 4 wk than calves fed fermented colostrum, thus promoting a subsequent trial to evaluate additives for colostrum preservation. Calves were fed either 3.64 kg whole milk or 2.73 kg colostrum naturally fermented or treated with propionic acid (1%) or formaldehyde (.1%). Whole milk was superior to naturally fermented colostrum while weight gains on propionic acid and formaldehyde were intermediate. Consumption of naturally fermented and propionic-acid colostrums was lower due to lack of acceptance of the colostrum diets. Efficiency of gain was highest on propionic-acid colostrum indicating efficient utilization of nutrients. Colostrum with formaldehyde had less degradation of protein and was readily acceptable by calves, but gains and feed efficiency were low compared to colostrum with propionic acid. Scours was low on both trials although slightly higher on formaldehyde colostrum. Addition of propionic acid or formaldehyde holds promise for preserving colostrum for young calves during warm ambient temperatures.