Farm Animal Welfare

Pig Immunity and Colostrum Science

Understanding the immunology of piglet colostrum absorption has improved welfare management of neonatal piglets on commercial farms.

Key Facts

Immunoglobulin absorption through the gut closes within 12-24 hours of birth
Closure time is variable and affected by gut colonisation and birth stress
Passive immune transfer is the sole source of antibodies for the first weeks of life
Colostrum pooling from sows with different antibody profiles can improve passive transfer coverage
Monitoring IgG levels in piglets can verify adequacy of colostrum management

Welfare Considerations

Colostrum science has provided the evidence base for management protocols that save piglet lives. Understanding the biology of passive immune transfer enables targeted interventions to improve outcomes for piglets at highest risk of inadequate colostrum intake.

What You Can Do

Support research into colostrum management optimisation for commercial pig farms
Advocate for neonatal welfare protocols based on colostrum science in pig welfare certification
Choose pork from farms with documented neonatal welfare management including colostrum protocols