Eurolac PE: Protein Equivalent

Proteins in the form of amino acids are the basis for growth of the young calf. We have succeeded in making our Eurolac calf milk replacer so efficient that we can achieve the same growth with less protein as with a traditional calf milk replacer. The total crude protein content of a calf milk replacer says little about the total intake of amino acids per day. Dairy proteins as a steady basis are very important, but can, from an economic point of view, be partly replaced by vegetable proteins. Specific amino acids can also be added to milk replacers in order to meet the requirements of the young calves. When the amino acid demand of the growing calf is met, it is possible to reduce the crude protein content in milk replacers while maintaining growth and health.

We concluded, after performing extensive trials, that reducing the protein content in milk replacers from 23% to 20% with the same amino acid pattern and an intensive feeding schedule of 50kg results in similar growth:

Trial results from various Schils trials show that it is possible to (partly) replace coconut oil and/or palm oil in calf milk replacers with a composition of sustainable and/or local fat sources. The fat composition can
consist of a combination of sunflower-, rapeseed-, linseed- and insect oil. Insect oil contains easy digestible medium chain fatty acid lauric acid, as well as the omega 6 fatty acid linoleic acid. These can support the calf during periods of stress, e.g. around the weaning period.

In addition to the health properties of insect oil, the use in calf milk replacer reduces the CO₂ footprint of the total product. Furthermore, it is a circular fat source, as the insects grow on products that are no longer suitable for human consumption.

For more information about our Eurolac PE calf milk replacers or about the specific fat trials and possibilities, please contact us.