Assessment of colostrum quality in dairy cattle using digital and optical Brix refractometers

Abstract

Colostrum contains a high concentration of immunoglobulins (particularly IgGl) that is an important source of immunity for newborn calves. Insufficient ingestion and absorption of colostral IgG results in failure of transfer of passive immunity (FTPI). FTPI increases the calf's risk of infection, morbidity and mortality. Therefore, measuring IgG concentration in colostrum prior to feeding and storage is a useful colostral management tool. Brix refractometers, either digital or optical have been used to estimate the colostral IgG concentration. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the performance of both digital and optical Brix refractometers for assessing colostrum quality in dairy cows, and to evaluate the agreement between the 2 types of Brix refractometers.