soon as possible (within one hour) after collection or cooled to less than
40°F to prevent bacterial growth during storage. Do not let colostrum sit at
room temperature; even half an hour at room temperatures during the
summer may allow bacterial populations to double. The same problem with
bacterial growth can occur after frozen colostrum is thawed. Pouring off the
liquid portion periodically as colostrum thaws (and putting it in the
refrigerator) will help limit bacterial growth.
Storing high quality colostrum is a good management practice. Surplus
colostrum can then be used when good quality, fresh colostrum is not
available for a newborn calf. Refrigeration (at 33 to 35°F) can preserve
colostrum quality for less than 24 hours before bacterial growth reaches
unacceptable levels. For long-term colostrum storage, freezing is the best
alternative. Colostrum may be frozen (at -5°F) for up to a year without
significant decomposition of antibodies. One report indicated that colostrum
was stored for up to 15 years without serious deterioration. Frost-free
freezers are not optimal for long-term colostrum storage, as they go through
freeze-thaw cycles that can allow the colostrum to thaw. Repeated freezethaw
cycles markedly shorten colostrum storage life
Artificially Colostrum feeding
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