14/06/2017: Bio-Mos® plus milk equals daily weight gain in calves and more milk in first lactation

A meta-analysis conducted by Berge Veterinary Consulting BVBA concluded that Bio-Mos®  supplementation in milk or milk replacer increased daily weight gain in dairy calves and led to more milk in the first lactation. - Image courtesy of Alltech

 Dairy producers strive for long-term production and productivity with their herd, right from the start, and the pre-weaning growth of a dairy calf is a good indicator. While diarrhoea is one of the most common antagonists in issues with poor digestion and weight gain in calves, supplementing with Bio-Mos® has been shown to enhance performance and improve gut health.

 A recent meta-analysis conducted by Dr. Anna Catharina Berge of Berge Veterinary Consulting BVBA concluded that Bio-Mos® supplementation in milk or milk replacer increased daily weight gain in dairy calves. 

 These trials revealed, on average, 0.14 pounds improved weight gain per head per day in pre-weaned dairy calves, which corresponded to 8.37 pounds increased weight for calves weaned at two months of age. 

 The long-term improved performance in heifers with improved pre-weaning growth would be equivalent to 220 pounds more milk in the first lactation, generating additional farm income, and improving gut health and digestive function.

 “The results are a significant improvement in average daily weight gain,” said Aidan Connolly, chief innovation officer and vice president of corporate accounts at Alltech. “This improvement leads to greater returns for the producer through enhanced milk production, health and development, and long-term productivity.” 

 The meta-analysis included 23 cohort studies performed in the USA, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Chile, the Czech Republic, India, Japan, Peru, Poland, Spain, and Turkey between 1993 and 2012. Bio-Mos was supplemented at two to 10 grammes per day, with an average inclusion of 3.8 grams per day. 21 of the studies reported an increase in daily weight gain for calves fed Bio-Mos in milk or milk replacer compared to control calves. 

 Visit the Alltech website here. 

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