DairyTalk 670: 22% vs. 18% Crude Protein: When Does Premium Calf Starter Actually Pay? - by Helmut Demmelhuber

DairyTalk by Helmut Demmelhuber · Sep 19, 2026 · 23m

This podcast episode is based on a technical article examining whether higher-protein calf starter delivers value beyond what can be seen on the scale. Research from the University of Illinois suggests that increasing crude protein from 18% to 22% may not produce additional body weight, but can shift development toward more muscle and internal organ tissue. The benefit, however, depends heavily on calves consuming enough starter before milk is withdrawn, making feed intake a more meaningful weaning criterion than age alone. Reaching roughly 1.5 kg of daily starter intake therefore becomes a…