One practical solution we’re now offering is IsoBoost™, a dry cow additive that complements all existing Crediton Milling transition diets, whether based on calcium binders like Dry Cow Xtra, or DCAD and calcium binding approaches such as Dry Cow Transformer. It’s designed to slot into existing rations without the need for rebalancing, while delivering targeted support to the rumen.
IsoBoost combines two key components. The first is Zinpro IsoFerm®, a source of branched-chain volatile fatty acids (isoacids), which act as essential growth factors for fibre-digesting bacteria. These microbes often become compromised in the lead-up to calving due to shifting diets, variable intakes, and lower rumen throughput. By improving fibre digestibility—potentially by 10–15%—IsoFerm supports energy release from forage and improves microbial protein yield at a time when cows are under significant metabolic pressure.
The second is Zinpro Availa® Chromium, a new addition to the Zinpro range, and now available in the UK. Chromium has been shown to improve insulin sensitivity, glucose utilisation, and dry matter intake—especially during periods of stress and negative energy balance. Incorporating Availa Chromium into the transition diet can help stabilise blood energy markers and support post-calving recovery –built for better beginnings.
IsoBoost is not a replacement for good ration design—it’s an enhancement. It’s particularly useful in herds where forage quality is inconsistent, or where intakes are slow to recover pre-calving. Its inclusion is straightforward, with no reformulation needed, and can be added to any of our dry cow products.
At a time when one of our “go to” tools is unavailable, it’s sensible to look again at the fundamentals of transition cow nutrition—particularly the rumen. IsoBoost gives us an evidence-based option to do just that.