Profitability of fermented colostrum, soybean oil and zeranol were evaluated in 40 Holstein × Zebu calves from 15 to 60 days of age. They were fed a concentrate with 23% crude protein, restricted at amount of 1.5kg/day, ad libitum Tifton hay (Cynodon dactylon) and three liters of milk or fermented colostrum. Considering the nursing expenses and the incomes, the results showed lower costs for animals fed with fermented colostrum. This result associated with animals performance showed that fermented colostrum is efficient for suckling calves, allowing higher profitability.
calves; feeding; fat; zeranol; cost; profitability