The Process

Several factors influence the quality of a colostrum supplement. At Holy Cow Health, our “New Zealand Advantage” guarantees that our colostrum is among the highest quality products available on the market. This distinction extends to our meticulous manufacturing process, designed to consistently deliver a supplement rich in essential growth factors, proteins, and vital nutrients.

We harvest colostrum exclusively from the first two milkings post-calving — a crucial period ensuring the newborn calves receive sufficient colostrum to support robust growth and a strong immune system capable of defending against viruses, parasites, and bacteria.

Immediately after collection, the colostrum is chilled and transported directly to our processing facility, enabling same-day processing that preserves its inherent bioactivity. We adhere to an internationally recognized pasteurization standard: a gentle 15-second heat treatment at 72°C, sufficient to ensure safety while maintaining the potency of the bioactive components. Following pasteurization, the colostrum is transferred to our bottling facility.

During bottling we apply a proprietary ‘energizing’ process that enhances the biological activity of the colostrum’s active ingredients. This innovation ensures that users experience maximum benefit from Holy Cow Health colostrum supplements.

Thanks to this advanced manufacturing approach, Holy Cow Health’s colostrum products provide a more concentrated dose compared to many competitors, requiring lower consumption amounts for optimal absorption and efficacy.

Key aspects of our production process include:

De-fatting: To enhance concentration and shelf-life, we remove fat from the colostrum. Since fat contains no bioactive proteins and is prone to oxidation, defatting increases the relative concentration of key proteins—primarily immunoglobulin G (IgG)—and extends product stability.

Pasteurization: Given potential contamination risks (e.g., from environmental bacteria like E. coli or salmonella), our colostrum undergoes strict pasteurization at 72°C for 15 seconds. This procedure complies with the most rigorous international standards, ensuring microbiological safety without compromising the biological activity of beneficial components.

Unique Energizing Process: This patented technique applied during bottling augments purity and bioactivity, enabling users to benefit fully with just one to two capsules or a teaspoon of powder daily—far less than some other products require.

No Unnecessary Coatings: Since bovine colostrum’s molecular structure closely mirrors that of human colostrum, Holy Cow Health offers uncoated supplements. This preserves the natural integrity of the colostrum, which supports digestive health, including the stomach lining and related tissues, more effectively than coated alternatives.

Rigorous Quality Control:

  • Final products are sampled and tested for chemical, sensory, and microbial parameters by an ISO 17025 certified laboratory, using internationally recognized methods.

  • Strict handling and storage protocols are in place to maintain product quality during shipping.

  • Each package carries a unique batch number to ensure complete traceability.
  • Manufacturing is conducted under a Risk Management Programme certified by the New Zealand Food Safety Authority, encompassing HACCP practices and ISO 22000 and 14001 certifications.

  • The bottling facility holds GMP certification, underscoring our commitment to quality and safety.