Have you heard about the revolutionary new test that won the Royal Dairy Innovation Award? The ImmnuIGY Bovine IgG from Bimeda is creating waves in the industry for its ability to measure IgG levels in calf blood in just 10 minutes. This simple test can help identify calves at risk of Failure of Passive Transfer (FPT), allowing farmers to take proactive steps to improve health and performance outcomes.
The Impact of FPT
Calves that do not receive enough high-quality colostrum in the crucial early hours of life are at higher risk of FPT. This condition can lead to increased susceptibility to diseases and reduced daily weight gain, ultimately impacting the overall productivity of the calf.
But with the ImmnuIGY test, early identification of FPT and suboptimal calves is now possible. By measuring IgG levels accurately and quickly, farmers can make informed decisions about calf management, leading to better outcomes for both the calves and the farm.
The Advantages of Early Detection
- Feedback to Suppliers: The test results can be used to provide feedback to supplying farms, enabling them to make changes to colostrum management practices.
- Risk Rating and Grading: Calves can be risk-rated and graded based on their IgG levels, allowing for targeted management strategies.
- Rewarding High-Quality Colostrum: Farms that supply calves with high colostrum levels can be rewarded with premiums, encouraging better colostrum management.
- Predictive Performance: Using an algorithm developed based on test results, farmers can predict the likely performance of each calf.
- Increased Profits: Healthy, thriving calves with adequate colostrum intake can lead to increased efficiencies and profits for rearers.
On-Farm Testing Made Easy
The ImmnuIGY test is designed for on-farm use, making it accessible to farmers without the need for a veterinary surgeon. With just a small blood sample and a quick 10-minute incubation period, farmers can get immediate results using the lateral flow device. This low-cost and efficient test is a game-changer for the dairy industry.
Driving Sustainable Practices
By monitoring and addressing IgG levels in calves, farms can reduce the risk of FPT and improve overall health, productivity, and sustainability. The ImmnuIGY test allows for early detection of potential issues, leading to better outcomes for both the calves and the farm.
Recognition and Future Potential
The Royal Dairy Innovation Award-winning test has been hailed as a significant step forward in calf management. By allowing testing of colostrum intake in calves up to 42 days old, this test has the potential to revolutionize how farmers monitor and assess calf health.
Mark Cokayne, Bimeda’s general manager, expressed excitement about the future of the test and its impact on the industry. The collaborative effort with partners like Synergy Farm Health, Soma Bioscience, and Buitelaar has been instrumental in bringing this innovative solution to market.
The Future of Dairy Innovation
While the ImmnuIGY test took home the top prize, other innovative solutions were also recognized at the Royal Dairy Innovation Awards. National Milk Records’ GenoCells and DeLaval’s DeLaval Plus were highlighted as runners-up, showcasing the depth of innovation and creativity in the dairy industry.
As the industry continues to evolve, new technologies and solutions like the ImmnuIGY Bovine IgG test are instrumental in driving sustainable practices, improving productivity, and ensuring the health and well-being of livestock. With a focus on early detection and proactive management, farmers can optimize their operations and create a more sustainable future for the dairy sector.
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