The selection of ingredients suitable for incorporation in calf milk replacer (CMR) is primarily based on the digestibility of the calf. The feeding system of a calf is a very complex and complicated matter.

 

There are three most important factors with the composition of recipes for CMR’s: The energy content, the content of proteins and the economics of feeding.

One of the main components in CMR applications are fats. Fats are the most important sources for the required energy.  Utilization of all nutrients in the milk replacer must be comparable with those of whole milk, to obtain equivalent growth rates of the calf.

 

CMR fats should contain as much short chain and middle chain fatty acids as possible, preferably these fatty acids being highly saturated. Although unsaturated fatty acids are well digestible for calves, they have a negative effect on weight increase and often on the quality of the skin. In worse case the calf could suffer from diarrhea. For economic reasons it will be advantageous to feed calves with milk replacers. Feeding calves with high quality CMR makes the calves grow quickly as possible.

 

Unimills has a complete range of fats for the CMR’s. From straight refined to special designed interesterified fats for CMR’s which are needed for the optimal growth process of the calves.

 

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