Does Biochar Feed Reduce Calf Diarrhoea?
Newborn calves are born ‘immunologically naïve’, making them particularly vulnerable to diarrhoea and other parasitic forms of infection that can cause irreversible damage to the intestine. Their lack of a functional immune system and antibodies make biochar enhanced feed consumption integral to supporting a healthy start of life.
The Natural Solution for Calf Diarrhoea
In calf rearing, diarrhoea remains one of the most serious and costly challenges for dairy farmers. Newborn calves begin life with a sensitive immune system, and factors from hygiene issues to stress, can quickly trigger digestive disorders.
Why Biochar Helps with Calf Diarrhoea?
When the mother and calf are separated quickly after birth, the calf fails to receive the nutrients, colostrum and antibodies in the milk the mother produces at this early stage.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7127081
- Binds toxins in the digestive tract
Biochar has an exceptionally large surface area, allowing it to bind harmful and toxic substances in the gastrointestinal tract before they can pass into the bloodstream. - Finely ground for safe feeding
Biochar feed specifically designed for calves, is finely milled so it does not block feeding or milk-delivery systems, making it very practical for daily use. - Supports reduced antibiotic use
By naturally stabilising the digestive tract, feed charcoal can reduce the need for antibiotic treatments in many cases—protecting the calf’s gut flora and improving long-term herd health, whilst reducing veterinary costs.
Additional Benefits of Biochar Beyond Diarrhoea Control
Feed Charcoal is not only helpful for managing diarrhoea—it also provides broader benefits that support modern, welfare-focused animal management:
- Detoxification & microbiome support
Biochar’s strong adsorptive capacity helps bind pathogens and toxins while supporting a more stable and resilient gut microbiome. - Improved stress resilience
After stressful events such as transport, auctions, weaning, or pen changes, calves are at greater risk of digestive disorders. Feed charcoal can help stabilise gut function during these high-risk periods. - Long-term cost savings
Healthier calves with more stable digestive systems require fewer veterinary interventions and medications.
- Sustainable and environmentally responsible
Plant-based biochar fits seamlessly into modern regenerative and circular farming practices.
Feed Charcoal has been used to help improve gastrointestinal function for centuries. By naturally binding toxins, stabilising gut health, reducing reliance on antibiotics, and enhancing overall resilience, charcoal offers a powerful, sustainable tool for improving calf rearing outcomes.
