Farm Animals

Farmed Pig Colostrum and Immunity

Piglet colostrum intake in the first hours of life determines immune system development and lifetime welfare outcomes.

Key Facts

Piglets have no maternal antibody transfer across the placenta
All immunity comes from colostrum ingested within the first 12 hours
Failure of passive transfer causes increased disease susceptibility
Low birth weight piglets often fail to obtain adequate colostrum
Supplemental colostrum can rescue piglets that fail to nurse

Welfare Considerations

Piglets that fail to receive adequate colostrum are immunologically naive and experience increased disease throughout their lives. Ensuring all piglets receive colostrum is one of the highest-impact welfare interventions.

What You Can Do

Support welfare standards requiring colostrum management
Advocate for neonatal piglet care training
Choose pork from farms with documented neonatal welfare management