The Effect of Parity on the Quality of Colostrum of Holstein Dairy Cows in the Organic Production System

SIMPLE SUMMARY: It should be emphasized that bovine placenta limits the transfer of immunoglobulins (Ig) between the mother and the fetus. Placental membranes are characterized by limited permeability, and only gases and small particles can penetrate through them; therefore, calves are born with minimal levels of antibodies. The quality of colostrum is shaped by environmental and genetic factors. It should be emphasized that the amount of colostrum produced is negatively correlated with its density and the basic chemical composition (protein, fat). So, its quality decreases as the amount of colostrum produced increases. Cows’ parity is also a modulating factor, and studies have shown an increase in colostral IgG corresponds with increasing parity. A special feature of organic production systems is the cows’ significantly lower productivity, which is adapted to environmental conditions. The research hypothesis proposes the verification of the statement: the organic system has a positive impact on the quality of colostrum. The aim of the study was to determine the effect of cows’ parity on the quality of colostrum, in an organic farm setting. ABSTRACT: A special feature of organic production systems is the cows’ significantly lower productivity, which is adapted to environmental conditions. The quantity and quality of colostrum is negatively correlated, high amounts of colostrum are associated with low amounts of immunoglobulins. Cows’ parity is also a modulating factor, and studies have shown an increase in colostral IgG corresponds with increasing parity. This study’s aim was to determine the effect of cows’ parity on colostrum quality, in an organic farm setting. From a basic organic herd of dairy cattle, 40 Polish Holstein–Friesian cows were selected: 10 cows each of primiparous, second lactation, fourth lactation, and fifth lactation. Colostrum and transition milk samples were taken from each cow seven times: twice daily on the 1st and 2nd days after calving (every 12 h), and once daily on the 3rd to 5th days. Multiparous cows’ colostrum had higher levels of total proteins, casein, and non-fat dry matter, versus primiparous. Only cows in the second and fourth lactations produced very good quality colostrum (with immunoglobulins over 50 g/L), meeting standards for immunoglobulin concentration. In conclusion, the production of very good quality colostrum is limited during the first lactation, which may suggest the mammary gland is poorly developed, and, thus, immunoglobulin transport is limited. Variability in the colostrum’s immunoglobulin content from first and second collections post-calving was higher in multiparous versus primiparous cows. Therefore, it should be good practice to freeze colostrum from multiparous cows in case of poor-quality primiparous colostrum.