On most farms, specialists focus on the health of young animals from the moment of birth. To ensure a calf grows into a high-yielding cow, monitoring its immunity is essential.
It is well-known that providing colostrum is just the start; it is also crucial to measure the density and concentration of IgG (Immunoglobulin G) not only in the colostrum itself but also in the calf’s blood serum. To determine these levels, 99% of specialists use refractometers with a Brix scale.
Understanding the Brix Scale The Brix degree (°Bx) represents the ratio of dissolved sucrose to the total mass of the liquid. Since Brix is linked to the concentration of dissolved solids, it also correlates with the specific gravity (density) of the liquid.
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Example: 25 °Bx means 25 grams of sucrose and 75 grams of water in a 100-gram solution. This value can be easily verified using distilled water and a kitchen scale.
Application in Calf Care To convert Brix values to IgG levels:
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Convert the Brix value into a refractive index using specialized Table No. 1.
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Use Table No. 2 to convert the refractive index into the free protein content index in the blood serum (this step is specific to serum analysis).
Modern Brix meters are digital refractometers that determine values based on light refraction. These devices are typically compact, durable, and easy for anyone to operate.
Our Range: We offer both standard Brix scale refractometers for colostrum testing and specialized refractometers for determining free (unbound) protein levels in blood serum.