Colostrum with a brix value of at least 23%, which stands for 68 IgG per liter, is good colostrum. This is also suitable for freezing. With these tips from Nicolien, this will go well and as easily as possible:
Use freezer bags
Use freezer bags instead of bottles to freeze colostrum. Bags are easier to stack in the freezer and they also defrost a lot faster.
Note down important information
Write the cow number, the brix value and the date on the bag.
Freeze in small portions
Freeze the colostrum preferably in small portions, so that you can quickly grab a liter to supplement other colostrum. An additional advantage: defrosting is also a lot faster.
Colostrum quality more important than cow age
You can freeze colostrum from both a heifer and an older cow. The quality of colostrum from both animal groups can be fine. However, keep to the minimum brix value of 23%. Freezing colostrum with a lower quality is of little use, especially because some antibodies are lost during the freezing and thawing process.
Use the colostrum within a year
Use the frozen colostrum within a year. After that, the quality of the colostrum, especially the proteins, can deteriorate.
Only defrost the colostrum in a bain-marie
Frozen colostrum can be defrosted by placing the bottle or bag in hot water. Never defrost colostrum in the microwave, because then the antibodies are lost.
Tip: also watch the video of young cattle specialist Johan Verdaasdonk who demonstrates how to defrost colostrum:
Never heat colostrum above 60 degrees
Make sure that the colostrum never gets warmer than 60 degrees. Above 60°C, proteins, and therefore also antibodies, are destroyed. The ideal drinking temperature is the body temperature of the calf, so around 38°C.
Always keep ColoCorrect on hand
Colostrum in the freezer is nice, but to be on the safe side, keep ColoCorrect on hand. With this freeze-dried colostrum, you can upgrade colostrum with a brix value below 23%. “Especially at night, this is easier than having to wait until your colostrum from the freezer has reached the right temperature”, is also Nicolien’s own experience.
For more practical tips for colostrum management on your farm, please contact Nicolien and her colleagues.