First Day Formula® Colostrum Replacer and Supplement for Newborn Calves

Price range: $17.50 through $905.00

Give every calf a strong start, no matter the situation. First Day Formula® offers three targeted solutions: a proven colostrum replacer (CR), an enhanced Replacer Deluxe with First Defense®, and a colostrum supplement (CS). All are designed to support passive immunity, calf health, and early-life performance in dairy and beef calves.

  • Supports successful passive transfer with 150g of bovine immunoglobulins per feeding
  • Made with 100% dried bovine colostrum from U.S. Grade A dairies
  • Helps reduce disease risk by eliminating pathogen transfer from cow to calf
  • Provides consistent IgG delivery, removing variability in colostrum quality and volume
  • Fortified with bioavailable vitamins and trace minerals for immune and performance support
  • Convenient, easy-to-mix formula for reliable feeding anytime, anywhere

Product Details

Description

Choose the Right First Day Formula® Option

First Day Formula® CR (Colostrum Replacer) is a complete replacement for maternal colostrum. Delivers 150g of bovine immunoglobulins per feeding. Ideal when colostrum is unavailable or low quality.

First Day Formula® CR Deluxe (with First Defense) has all the benefits of CR, plus added pathogen-specific antibodies. Provides targeted support against common calfhood challenges (like scours).

First Day Formula® CS (Colostrum Supplement) is designed to boost maternal colostrum quality. Helps ensure adequate passive transfer when colostrum tests marginally.

The first feeding is one of the most critical moments in a calf’s life. First Day Formula® CR (Colostrum Replacer) and CS (Colostrum Supplement) are designed to ensure calves receive the immune support they need without the uncertainty that often comes with maternal colostrum.

Formulated with 100% natural dried bovine colostrum, First Day Formula delivers a consistent dose of 150 grams of globulin protein per feeding, meeting current research-based recommendations for colostrum replacers. This helps calves achieve successful passive transfer, a key driver of health, growth, and long-term productivity.

In a large-scale study, 299 out of 300 calves fed First Day Formula CR achieved successful passive transfer, statistically equivalent to calves fed high-quality maternal colostrum. That level of consistency makes it one of the most trusted and researched colostrum solutions available.

Beyond immune protection, First Day Formula helps eliminate the risk of transmitting diseases that can be present in maternal colostrum. It also offers unmatched convenience, whether you’re managing nighttime calvings, short-staffed periods, or inconsistent colostrum supply.

For producers focused on calf health, efficiency, and predictable outcomes, First Day Formula provides both quality assurance and quantity assurance, ensuring every calf gets what it needs, every time.

When to Use

  • Maternal colostrum is unavailable or insufficient
  • Colostrum quality is low (below 20 Brix)
  • To supplement moderate-quality colostrum (20–24 Brix)
  • When calves won’t consume recommended colostrum volumes
  • To reduce disease transmission risk from cow to calf
  • During busy seasons, labor shortages, or nighttime feedings

Directions for Use

First Day Formula® CR (Colostrum Replacer)

  • Mix 1 packet (500g) or three level scoops with 2 quarts warm water (115°F)
  • Feed at body temperature using a nipple bottle or esophageal feeder
  • Ensure full consumption
  • Begin milk or milk replacer feeding 6–12 hours later
  • Supplement based on colostrum quality
    • <20 Brix: Replace with full CR feeding (1 packet in 2 quarts water)
    • 20–24 Brix: Supplement with ⅓ packet (166g) mixed into maternal colostrum
  • For Suckling Calves (Boosting Immunity)
    • Mix ⅓ packet (166g) with 1-quart warm water
    • Feed, then return calf to dam

First Day Formula® CS (Colostrum Supplement)

  • Mix with 1-quart warm water
  • Feed alongside at least 2 quarts of clean, high-quality colostrum

Ingredients

  • Dried bovine colostrum (U.S. Grade A sourced)
  • Bovine immunoglobulins (IgG)
  • Essential vitamins and trace minerals
  • Direct-fed microbial support (select formulations)
  • Instantized for easy mixing and consistent delivery

Available sizes

  • 500g packet (single feeding)
  • 20 lb pail (~18 feedings)
  • Scoop included (~166g per level scoop; weighing recommended)

Storage

Store in a cool, dry place and keep container tightly closed.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I decide between replacer, supplement, or replacer deluxe?

  • Use First Day Formula CR (Replacer) when maternal colostrum is unavailable, low quality (below 20 Brix), or you want a consistent, reliable source of immunity every time.
  • Use First Day Formula CS (Supplement) when you have good-quality colostrum but want to boost immunoglobulin levels and support stronger passive transfer.
  • Use First Day Formula CR Deluxe (with First Defense) when you want everything the replacer provides plus added, targeted protection against common calfhood pathogens, especially valuable in higher-risk environments or operations with a history of scours challenges.

How does First Day Formula compare to maternal colostrum?
Research shows it delivers equivalent passive transfer success when fed correctly, without the variability of on-farm colostrum.

Can I use it for both dairy and beef calves?
Yes. First Day Formula is designed for all newborn calves, regardless of operation type.

When should I choose replacer vs. supplement?

  • Use CR (replacer) when colostrum is unavailable or poor quality
  • Use CS (supplement) when you have good colostrum but want to enhance immunity

Why is consistency important?
Colostrum quality varies widely between cows. First Day Formula ensures every calf receives the same proven level of immune support.

Additional information

Weight N/A
Dimensions N/A
Options

First Day CR 500GR, First Day CR 20lb. Pail, First Day CR Deluxe with First Defense 500GR, First Day CR Deluxe with First Defense 20lb. Pail, First Day CS 200GR