Heat treatment of colostrum has emerged as a widespread practice among dairy operations caring for newborn calves, according to an industry expert. Cora Okkema, who serves as Great Lakes Territory Manager for Dairy Tech and specializes in colostrum management, reports that this process has become standard protocol on numerous farming operations.
Speaking with Brownfield, Okkema explained that the heat treatment process significantly reduces dangerous bacterial levels that could harm vulnerable newborn calves. She emphasized the importance of protecting young animals during their most critical developmental phase, noting that introducing harmful pathogens is the last thing farmers want to do when calves are at their most susceptible stage.
