Research Article

The composition and physicochemical properties of colostrum in Black-and-White Polish Holstein-Friesian cows, Montbéliarde cows and their crossbreeds

Edyta Wojtas, Andrzej Zachwieja

Department of Cattle Breeding and Milk Production, Wrocław University of Environmental and Life Sciences, Chełmońskiego 38c, 51-630Wrocław, Poland

1. Acta Sci. Pol. Zootechnica, 15(2), 2016, 87‒98
2. DOI: 10.21005/asp.2016.15.2.08

Abstract. The study involved 32 cows, including 13 Black-and-White Polish Holstein-Friesian cows, 6 Montbéliarde cows and 13 crossbred cows. Material for the study included samples of colostrum, which were analysed for basic components, somatic cell count, total bacteria count, immunoglobulin G1 concentration and physicochemical properties. In contrast to Polish Holstein-Friesian and Montbéliarde breeds, the colostrum of crossbred cows contained higher levels of dry matter, protein and fat, as well as lower lactose levels both in the first and the third milkings. Additionally, in the colostrum of these cows the level of titratable acidity, total bacteria count, somatic cell count, density, resistance and coagulation were higher, while active acidity and thermostability were lower. The immunoglobulin G1 concentration in the colostrum of crossbred cows showed greater stability on the first day when compared to Polish Holstein-Friesian and Montbéliarde breeds.

Keywords: cows, genotype, colostrum, basic components, physicochemical properties