Nettex has launched NovaGuard Calf, a new prebiotic and postbiotic liquid formulated to support calf gut health, natural immune function and growth during the milk-feeding period.
NovaGuard Calf uses fermented yeast technology and can be fed daily in whole milk or milk replacer from the first colostrum feed through to weaning.
The new product combines metabolites produced through the fermentation of Saccharomyces cerevisiae yeast with refined functional carbohydrates derived from the yeast cell wall. These include mannan-oligosaccharides, mannose-rich fractions and beta-glucans.
NovaGuard Calf does not introduce live microorganisms. Its mannose-rich functional carbohydrates provide accessible interaction sites for selected enteric bacteria, helping to reduce opportunities for attachment and supporting a more balanced gut environment. Beta-glucans also help support an appropriate immune response.
NovaGuard Calf also contains ImmuTec Technology, which is being launched across certain products in the Nettex range. ImmuTec combines selected functional ingredients to support gut health, natural defences and performance.
The ingredients within ImmuTec vary according to the species, product and nutritional objective, with each selected for a defined biological role.
NovaGuard Calf helps put the immune system into a state of readiness, enabling it to respond more effectively when a health challenge occurs. It also supports the development of a healthy gut microbiome, encouraging beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium.
Nia Williams, technical manager at Nettex, said NovaGuard Calf gives farmers another practical tool to support calves from the very beginning of life.
“Calf health is under real pressure, with scours and pneumonia remaining two of the biggest reasons for oral antibiotic treatments on farm,” she said.
“By supporting gut health from day one, NovaGuard Calf can help farmers rear stronger, more resilient calves, helping to reduce the impact of health challenges and the need for veterinary intervention.”
Proven performance
Trials using NovaGuard Calf have demonstrated clear health and performance benefits.
In one on-farm study, supplementation with NovaGuard Calf in milk increased average daily gain (ADG) by 57% over a 60-day period. Feed efficiency was also improved compared with calves fed a standard yeast-based product.
NovaGuard Calf is typically fed daily in whole milk or milk replacer at 8ml per calf per day, with higher inclusion rates recommended during periods of increased disease challenge or stress.
When fed from birth to 56 days of age, the cost is approximately £5.42 per calf. This compares with an estimated £83.66 cost of a single case of scour. This figure does not account for the additional labour associated with managing scours or the potential impact of reduced lifetime productivity.
“Supporting gut health is an important part of giving calves the best possible start and helping them reach their potential,” added Mrs Williams.
“NovaGuard Calf provides a simple and cost-effective way for farmers to incorporate additional gut support into their calf-rearing routine, helping build resilience during this critical early-life period.”
