Raising healthy calves is the foundation of any successful dairy operation, and decisions during the pre-weaning phase can significantly influence their growth and future productivity. One critical question many farmers face is: Should you feed your calves pasteurized waste milk (WM) or milk replacer (MR)? Recent research sheds light on this debate, comparing these two feeding strategies head-to-head.
In a study with pre-weaned Holstein calves, feeding WM delivered several advantages over MR. Calves on WM showed better growth rates, increased body weight, and improved skeletal development compared to those fed MR. This performance boost was linked to higher nutrient intake, particularly fat and metabolizable energy, found in WM.
WM, a common byproduct of dairy farms, offers not only a cost advantage but also valuable nutrients and bioactive compounds that support calf health. In contrast, MR often contains more lactose and less fat, which may result in higher milk intake but lower energy efficiency. The study found that calves fed WM consumed more starter feed, suggesting a quicker transition to solid feed
and enhanced rumen development.
However, it’s important to note that the results of MR are largely dependent on the quality of the product. Many studies have shown no significant differences in performance or health between calves fed high-quality MR and those fed WM. Additionally, MR often provides more labor efficiency and ease of handling compared to WM. These practical advantages can save time and effort on farms, particularly those with large herds or limited labor availability.
Health benefits were another key finding for WM. Calves on WM had fewer days with diarrhea and pneumonia, reducing the need for veterinary treatments. This could be attributed to the bioactive components in WM, which help bolster immune function and gut health. Additionally, the higher fat content in WM contributes to better digestion and feed efficiency. Of course, using WM requires careful management. Pasteurization is essential to eliminate harmful pathogens, and monitoring for antibiotic residues ensures compliance with regulations. These steps help maintain calf health and support the production of high-quality dairy products.
Farmers should carefully evaluate their specific circumstances, including herd size, labor availability, and product quality, to determine the best option for their operations. While MR provides consistency and convenience, WM offers a nutrient-rich, economical alternative when managed effectively.
Investing in the right feeding strategy during the critical pre-weaning phase can set your calves — and your dairy operation — on a path to long-term success. If you’re feeding WM, remember that proper pasteurization and monitoring are key to unlocking its full potential.
Further information on this study can be found at https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0317405
— Marcos Marcondes