Colostrum composition and its importance to the health ofanimals - A review

Abstract

Colostrum is the highly nutritious secretion of the mammary glands produced before parturition. It is recommended that neonates must ingest colostrum to develop passive immunity. Regardless of placental structure and transfer of immunity in utero, ingestion of colostrum after birth also confers additional protection by binding to intestinal receptors which could otherwise be bound by bacteria. Moreover, the adequate colostrum reduces neonatal mortality, strengthen immunity and increase animal lifespan. Delaying intake of colostrum in dairy calves causes decreased transport of both immunoglobulins as well as fat-soluble vitamins. In this review, an attempt has been made to study the composition of colostrum, i.e. fat, protein, immunoglobulin, lactose, oligosaccharide, vitamins, minerals, growth factors and nucleotides and its benefits to health of animals.