Scientific research conducted at a major United States University has established there are consistent values for several key markers in bovine colostrum. At birth when the placenta is eliminated a protein-based substance develops in the cells lining the mammary gland that essentially blocks any further transfer of substances from the blood into the mammary gland. The composition of the fluid in the mammary gland at birth is that of true colostrum shown below as 0 hour colostrum. 0 hour colostrum a) has a high protein concentration; b) contains the highest concentration of growth promoters, other hormones and additional metabolically active substances; and c) is low in lactose content. Within the first 6 hours following birth the balance of these substances begins to change as illustrated below.

These values can only be obtained in bovine colostrum coming from the first single milking within the first 0-6 hours after birth and thereby producing the balance desired to stimulate the immune system. Any subsequent milking is not true colostrum and is transitional milk with only a 20% value of colostrum and at best provides poor immune system support.

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