FFA Veterinary Science CDE Practice Test

What is the term used to describe the first milk produced by female mammals, which contains maternal antibodies?

1. Antigens

2. Serum

3. Colostrum

4. Vaccine

The correct answer is: Colostrum

The first milk produced by female mammals after giving birth is called colostrum. This substance is particularly important because it is rich in maternal antibodies, which are immunoglobulins that help protect newborns against infections and diseases during the early stages of life. Colostrum is produced in the first few days following delivery and contains a higher concentration of nutrients and immune factors compared to regular milk. This critical nutrient transfer helps establish the immune system of the newborn, giving it essential protection until it can develop its own immunity. The other terms presented relate to different concepts: antigens are substances that trigger an immune response, serum refers to the liquid part of blood after clotting factors have been removed, and vaccines are biological preparations that provide acquired immunity to a particular infectious disease, often by mimicking an infection. While all these terms are related to immunology and health, they do not pertain specifically to the first milk produced in mammals, making colostrum the correct and relevant choice in this context.