Colostrum products should be made from actual whole bovine colostrum. Many products on the market are a combination of many ingredients that attempt to mimic maternal colostrum. There should be a single main ingredient on the label: bovine colostrum. The product should also contain true colostral fat. Defatted colostrum does not provide essential fat that helps calves thermoregulate and gives them the energy they need. Fats and oils from other sources do not provide the same benefits to the calf.

Colostrum powder should be stored in a cool, dry place under 25°C (77° F) with the bag/pail tightly sealed. Proper storage helps maintain product quality and shelf life.

Colostral fat is the naturally occurring fat found in maternal colostrum and included in this product to replicate its nutritional profile. It provides a highly concentrated, easily digestible source of energy that newborn calves rely on to maintain body temperature, stay active, and support early metabolic function.

In addition to energy, colostral fat plays an important role in the absorption of fat‑soluble vitamins and supports overall vitality during the critical first hours of life, helping calves get off to a strong start.

Pails are ideal for operations that value convenience, storage efficiency, and frequent use. They help reduce packaging waste, allow for easy scooping and handling on-farm, and are often more practical for farms feeding multiple animals regularly. We typically recommend having enough colostrum on hand to cover about 10% of the herd, so in these situations, a pail can be a very practical option for maintaining adequate inventory.

In contrast, bags are often preferred for their pre-measured accuracy and portability. Both formats serve important roles depending on the farm’s needs—we simply aim to highlight the differences so producers can choose what works best for their operation.