Written by the Plenthera team (orthomolecular trained). Scientifically reviewed in April 2026. Last updated: April 30, 2026.
Colostrum — first milk — is the first milk produced by mammals in the hours following birth. For a newborn calf, it is literally an immune-starter kit: rich in immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, and growth factors that kickstart the system. For human supplementation, bovine (cow) colostrum is used — freeze-dried to preserve biological activity. At Plenthera, you'll find premium colostrum from grass-fed cows, with standardized IgG content. For those who want to comprehensively approach the immune and gut pathways.
Which colostrum is right for you?
| Form | Source | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Colostrum powder (KiKi Health) | New Zealand, grass-fed | Premium daily use |
| Colostrum capsules | Variable | On-the-go, precisely dosed |
| Colostrum + probiotics | Combination formula | Gut-immune axis |
| Colostrum + lactoferrin | Enriched | Enhanced immune profile |
What is colostrum?
Colostrum (first milk) is the first milk produced by mammals in the first 24 to 72 hours after birth. Its composition is fundamentally different from regular milk — richer in immunoglobulins (IgG, IgA, IgM), lactoferrin, and growth factors, and lower in lactose and fat.
For a newborn calf, colostrum is a first-hour necessity. Unlike human babies, bovine calves do not receive antibodies through the placenta — they must get them through colostrum within the first 24 hours, otherwise, their chance of survival is slim. The calf's gut system is also temporarily permeable to large proteins in the first few hours — a natural window for receiving maternal immunity.
For human supplementation, bovine colostrum is used — collected in the first 12 to 24 hours after birth, AFTER the calf has taken its share. Premium producers respect the order: calf first (first 6 hours, ~3 liters), then the surplus for human production. The liquid is freeze-dried (lyophilization) — a process where water is removed at low temperatures, ensuring that the proteins and growth factors remain biologically active.
What humans can get from colostrum is an active discussion. Unlike calves, the human gut is not permeable to large proteins. However, research suggests that colostrum components (especially lactoferrin and small peptides) can also affect the gut-immune axis in adults. Also, check out our probiotic category and bone broth category for the broader gut cluster.
Science, IgG, and EFSA status
Scientific research into bovine colostrum in adults primarily focuses on three themes: sports recovery (reduction of upper respiratory tract infections in athletes), gut permeability (especially during intense exercise and NSAID use), and general immune research. The results are predominantly positive in small-scale studies, but large, high-quality RCTs are scarce.
IgG content is the most important quality marker. Premium colostrum has at least 25% IgG (as a percentage of total protein), with the best brands reaching 35-40%. Lactoferrin (another immune-active protein) is increasingly standardized separately in premium products.
Important: there are NO health claims for colostrum recognized by EFSA. Therefore, we do not make literal claims of efficacy. Colostrum is a dietary supplement, not a medicine. In case of milk protein allergy: do not use. In case of severe immunosuppression: consult a doctor in advance.
Quality markers — what to check for in colostrum
IgG percentage: Most important marker. Minimum 25%, premium 30-40%. Stated on the label or in the laboratory report.
Production method: Freeze-drying (lyophilization) best preserves bio-activity. Spray-drying is cheaper but damages protein structures.
Pasteurization: Mandatory in EU for dairy products. "Low-temperature" or "flash" pasteurization preserves more bio-activity than traditional pasteurization.
Source country and welfare: New Zealand and Australia are premium for grass-fed, antibiotic-residue-free production. Europe: Ireland and Scandinavia. Always ask about the welfare protocol — calf first.
rBST-free: Recombinant Bovine Somatotropin — not allowed in EU; check for non-EU sources.
Lactoferrin content: Additional marker; 1-3% of protein is common in premium products.
The forms of colostrum at Plenthera
Colostrum powder
Freeze-dried colostrum powder. Mixable with water or in smoothies. Full, creamy taste. Our first-line for those who want flexible dosing.
Colostrum capsules
Practical for on-the-go, precisely dosed. Typically 500-1,000 mg per capsule.
KiKi Health Colostrum
Premium brand from New Zealand — grass-fed, IgG-rich, freeze-dried. One of the most respected colostrum brands in the EU.
Colostrum + probiotics
Symbiotic combination for those who want to address the gut-immune axis.
Colostrum + lactoferrin
Premium formula with separate lactoferrin standardization for an enhanced immune protein profile.
How to use colostrum?
Simple basic approach to colostrum:
- Determine your goal: daily maintenance (1-2 g), sports recovery (2-3 g), or gut issues (1.5-2.5 g).
- Start with the recommended low dosage and gradually build up.
- For maximum absorption: on an empty stomach (30-60 min before a meal) or with a light meal.
- Mix the powder with cold or lukewarm water — not with hot drinks (proteins denature).
- Divide higher dosages over two moments — morning and evening.
- For maximum gut-immune action, combine with probiotics and bone broth.
- In case of milk protein allergy: do not use. In case of lactose intolerance, usually well tolerated, but test with a small dose first.
- In case of severe immunosuppression or medical context: consult a doctor in advance, in accordance with the advice of the NVWA.
Myths and misunderstandings about colostrum
Myth 1: "Colostrum provides the same immune protection to adults as to baby calves."
Incorrect. In calves, the gut is temporarily permeable to large proteins like IgG — not in adults. What adults get from colostrum works through other mechanisms (local gut action, peptides). This nuance is often lost in marketing.
Myth 2: "The calf is disadvantaged by colostrum supplementation."
Not with premium brands. The calf is prioritized in the first 6 hours — only then is the surplus collected for human production. Always ask about the welfare protocol.
Myth 3: "Colostrum is the same as regular milk."
Incorrect. Colostrum has a fundamentally different composition — more immunoglobulins, more lactoferrin, less lactose, different growth factors. Produced only in the first 24-72 hours.
Myth 4: "The more colostrum, the stronger the immune system."
Dosages above 5 g/day do not show additional effects in research. For most people, 1-3 g/day is sufficient. Higher dosages can cause stomach upset.
Combining colostrum with other supplements
Colostrum is often combined for immune or gut health. Common combinations include:
- Probiotics: synergistic gut-immune combination.
- Bone broth: glycine, glutamine, and minerals for the gut cluster.
- L-glutamine: fuel for intestinal wall cells.
- Vitamin D: for broad immune support.
- Vitamin C: cofactor in immune function.
- Zinc: important immune mineral.
- AHCC: for those who want to specifically address the immune pathway.
Frequently asked questions
What is colostrum?
First milk (beestings) from mammals in the first 24-72 hours after birth. Rich in immunoglobulins, lactoferrin, and growth factors.
What is bovine colostrum?
Colostrum from cows — most commonly used for human supplements. Premium from New Zealand or Northern Europe.
How much colostrum per day?
1,000-3,000 mg/day. Sometimes higher for sports recovery.
When to take colostrum?
On an empty stomach or with a light meal. Not with hot drinks (denaturation).
Does colostrum help the immune system?
Research suggests effects in athletes (respiratory infections) and gut-immune issues. EFSA claims do not exist — no literal assertions.
Does colostrum help the gut?
Lactoferrin and peptides in colostrum have been studied in a gut context. EFSA claims do not exist.
Does colostrum contain lactose?
Well-processed colostrum contains <2% lactose. Usually well tolerated by those sensitive to lactose. In case of severe intolerance or milk allergy: avoid or test.
What is IgG in colostrum?
Immunoglobulin G — most common antibody. Most important quality marker in colostrum. Premium: 25-40% of total protein.
Is colostrum suitable for athletes?
Clinical research in athletes indicates effects on respiratory infections and gut permeability during intense training. Dosages typically 2-3 g/day.
Does colostrum have side effects?
Generally well tolerated. Possible stomach upset at high dosages. In case of milk protein allergy or immunosuppression: avoid or consult a doctor in advance.
Sources
- Bagwe S. et al., "Bovine colostrum: an emerging nutraceutical", J Complement Integr Med (2015).
- Crooks CV. et al., "The effect of bovine colostrum supplementation on salivary IgA in distance runners", Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab (2006).
- Hofman Z. et al., "The effect of bovine colostrum supplementation on exercise performance in elite field hockey players", Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab (2002).
- EFSA — no Scientific Opinions on colostrum claims approved.
Disclaimer: This text is for informational purposes only and does not replace medical advice. Colostrum is a dietary supplement, not a medicine. In case of doubt or if using medication, we recommend consulting a doctor or orthomolecular therapist first.