Lifeline Lamb and Ewe Trial Work

A trial at the Scottish Agricultural College (SAC) investigated whether specially formulated feed blocks (Lifeline Lamb and Ewe) could improve colostrum quality in ewes. Around 200 twin-bearing ewes were fed either treated or standard blocks for four weeks before lambing.

Results showed that ewes receiving Lifeline lamb and ewe blocks produced colostrum with 25% higher IgG levels. An important measure of immunity for newborn lambs. Highlighting the impact of pre-lambing nutrition on lamb survival.

Table 1: Impact of pre-lambing feed blocks on ewe colostrum IgG levels (mg/mL)

Treatment IgG Rep 1 IgG Rep 2 Mean s.e.d Level of Significance
Lifeline 236.5 220.5 228.5 16.79 0.007
Control 176.6 189.2 182.9

 

Note:

  • Intra-assay coefficient of variation: 5.83%
  • Approximate increase in IgG with treated blocks: ~25%