The Influence of Ingredients in Calf Milk on Calves

“Not proven means not for sale” is a firm philosophy at Denkavit. Since the 1960s, we have collected data from all our veal calves. This has given us not only extensive practical experience but also a wealth of research results. Every truckload is analysed in our laboratory before unloading. New additives are tested in our lab first, then in our digestion research facility, then in our  veal research farm, and finally at our veal farmers’ facilities. Only when the research results are positive, both for health and financial benefits, we include a new additive in our milk replacers.

Only Highly Soluble and Digestible Ingredients

The digestibility of ingredients is crucial in calf milk powder. However, as a user, you cannot see this information on the label. That’s why it is important to ask your supplier critical questions. Thanks to our extensive research, we know exactly which ingredients offer the best digestibility and solubility. These are the only ingredients we use as the foundation of our Denkamilk powders. Read more in this article about how ingredients influence gut health.

Selecting Ingredients Based on Coagulation Speed

In milk powders based on skimmed milk powder, there can be significant differences in coagulation. However, this information is also not found on the label. Both whey powder, which does not coagulate, and skimmed milk powder are listed as protein. We select our skimmed milk powders based on coagulation speed. We want the coagulation in the calf’s abomasum to start quickly, as this reduces the risk of undigested proteins reaching the intestine. Full and rapid coagulation is a key requirement for our skimmed milk powder.

Unique Health Additives

To support calf health and performance, all our calf milk replacers are enriched with Vital-iD. Health additives in calf milk provide many benefits. At Denkamilk, we pay close attention to vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. For example, vitamin A, D, and C are present in high levels. I’d like to highlight two key Vital-iD health additives in Denkamilk:

Progres®: Resin Acids for Feed Efficiency and Growth

Resin acids from coniferous trees have been known for centuries for their positive effects on wound treatment. Research has shown that they have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties (Sikkema 1995, Sipponen 2009, Fernandez 2001). In veal farming, our own studies have shown that adding Progres® to milk results in three kilograms of extra carcass weight. Progres® improves feed efficiency, enhances feed conversion, and contributes to calf growth. Progres® is included in every Denkamilk product.

Examo: Natural Milk Sugar for Resilience

Resilience, that is what the milk oligosaccharides in Examo provide to the calf. This natural milk sugar mix positively influences intestinal wall cell growth at the cellular level. A larger, more developed intestinal wall can absorb more nutrients. Additionally, the gut serves as a barrier. A well-developed intestinal wall works more effectively with the immune system. This means that the calf can not only absorb feed better but also becomes more resilient. Examo is found in Denkamilk Perfect, Denkamilk Excellent, and Denkamilk Royal 50.

Choosing the Right Milk Powder

The choice of milk powder is, of course, up to you. However, good management is always the foundation. Even the most premium milk powder cannot solve management issues. A more expensive milk powder is often a safer option. You pay for what is in the bag. If the price difference over the entire milk period is only a few tens of euros, we see in practice that farmers are willing to pay a few extra cents per day for hassle-free calf rearing and increased work satisfaction.

We are happy to assist you in finding the best milk powder for your farm.