Quick Summary
What did CL's tests of colostrum supplements show?
ConsumerLab's tests of popular bovine colostrum powders and capsules showed that only 5 of the 7 products contained the amounts of key immunoglobulins claimed or expected in high-quality colostrum (which should provide at least 12.5% IgG).
One product, for example, contained just 1.3% IgG, less than 10% of the amount claimed. In contrast, two products provided more than 20% IgG, delivering several hundred milligrams of IgG per serving (see What CL Found and How Products Were Evaluated). The cost for an equal amount of IgG varied by 2,500% across the products—from just 27 cents to nearly $7 — showing how much can be saved by choosing the right product.
Colostrum supplements tested included those sold by Adapt Naturals by Chris Kresser, Armra, California Gold Nutrition, Cowboy, Sovereign Laboratories, WonderCow, and Zena Nutrition.
Best colostrum supplement in ConsumerLab’s tests and review?
Among the products Approved in testing, ConsumerLab selected a Top Pick that not only promised but delivered one of the highest concentrations and amounts of IgG at a lower cost than most products.
What is bovine colostrum?
Bovine colostrum is a special type of milk produced by cows within 48 hours of giving birth to provide short-term immunity. It contains about 20 to 50 times the levels of immunoglobulin antibodies, such as IgG, found in regular milk. It also contains immune proteins such as lactoferrin, lysozymes, and lactoperoxidase, which are considered to provide passive, short-term immunity. Colostrum used in supplements is typically freeze-dried, a process that removes most of the water and some of the fat (see What It Is).
What are the health benefits of colostrum?
Bovine colostrum is promoted to boost immunity, gut health, and athletic performance; reduce respiratory infections and cases of infectious diarrhea; and even help with acne and aging skin. Although evidence of benefit for some of these conditions is promising, the supporting studies tend to be small, often lack objective data, and sometimes have conflicting results (see What It Does).
Colostrum supplement safety and side effects:
Bovine colostrum is generally safe but may cause gastrointestinal side effects. It should be avoided by people allergic to dairy products and women with estrogen-sensitive conditions (see Concerns and Cautions).
