News
IgA: The Gut Gate-keeper and Microbiome Manager
New work from the University of Florida is drawing attention to an underappreciated participant in the process of gut colonization. Secretory immunoglobulin A, or SIgA, is supplied through colostrum and milk. Schrag and colleagues have been investigating whether milk-derived SIgA does more than provide passive immune protection. Their work suggests that SIgA may also help guide which microbes become established in the developing rumen...
Feed the Liver, Fuel the Animal
The liver helps cattle convert nutrients into usable energy, synthesize proteins, regulate glucose and lipid metabolism, and filters toxins from the blood. It also plays a major role in immune defense by producing proteins and enzymes that help protect the animal from pathogens. A healthy liver supports growth, reproduction, milk production, and feed efficiency...
What Every Calf Raiser Needs to Know About Methionine
A recent look at starter crude protein and methionine supplementation in post-weaned Holstein heifers reinforces a message that matters: the goal is not always more protein, but better use of protein. When amino acids are balanced correctly, calves may be able to support health and performance without simply pushing crude protein...
Heat Stress in Calves: Water, Growth, and Gut Health
Heat stress in calves is a bigger issue than most people realize. While cows often get the most attention in summer because of the impact heat stress has on milk production, don't forget about the calves! Young calves can also be strongly affected by hot weather, especially when heat combines with humidity. Recent research shows that heat stress raises body temperature and breathing rate in calves, increases water intake, reduces growth efficiency, and can even disturb gut barrier function and contribute to inflammation. Hydration One of the most consistent signs of heat stress in calves is increased water demand....
From Farm Roots to Feed Innovation: How Cory Braund Built a Flourishing Calf Feed Business
With some mentorship and increasing demand from other calf raisers, Cory began producing feed not just for himself, but for others. What started as a solution to a farm problem quickly turned into a business opportunity. As demand grew and his original setup was outgrown, Cory made a pivotal decision: step away from farming and focus entirely on feed production.