Determination of colostrum quality using Brix refractometer in sheep

In this study, we aimed to determine the quality of colostrum in sheep by using Brix refractometer. The research included 100 sheep of Merino X Kivircik crossbred. From each, we collected 15 mL of colostrum samples in falcon tubes within the first 8 h after delivery. Mean colostral IgG level of sheep was 156.68 ± 7.23 g L-1, optical and digital Brix refractometer values (%) were determined as 27.43 ± 0.53 and 27.69 ± 0.60, respectively. Ewes carrying twin lambs produced significantly higher quality colostrum than those carrying single lambs. However, parity did not affect the colostrum quality. Optical and digital Brix values were correlated with gold standard radial immunodiffusion (RID) colostral IgG level (r = 0.70 and r = 0.64, respectively). Also, optical and digital Brix refractometers were found to be highly correlated (r = 0.98, P < 0.001). While the optimal Brix value was 22% for the 50, 60 and 70 g L-1 IgG threshold values (by means of RID as the potential good quality threshold value for ewe colostrum quality), this value was 23% for 80 g L-1. We can conclude that Brix refractometers is a valuable tool for determining ewe colostrum quality. A cut point of 22% Brix for defining good quality colostrum in ewes was most appropriate for our data.