Approximately sixty percent of all early lactation mastitis cases originate in the dry period. To prevent new infections from occurring prior to calving, dairy cows should be dried off methodically and carefully. A single case of clinical mastitis can cost in excess of $100. Research indicates that conventional dry cow therapy typically reduces the rate of new infections by up to eighty-two percent.

Cinnatube is a one-shot, non-antibiotic, teat infusion. In USDA funded trials, the performance of a single shot of Cinnatube was found comparable with the two-shot Quartermaster & Orbeseal combination in preventing new infections in the dry period. Hence, Cinnatube can save both valuable time and money, whilst guaranteeing no risk of antibiotic residue. USDA/SARE funded work at North Carolina State University ( Project GS10-094 ) found, “The risk of new infections for each treatment were 14±7% for CIN[Cinnatube]… 23±20% for CON[Quartermaster with Orbeseal]….Cinnatube appeared to have a protective effect versus new infections compared with no treatment…Cinnatube, was also effective at preventing future infections ….eliminating the risk of antibiotic residues in milk/meat and by lowering the contribution of the dairy industry to the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria.” This research has been published, and subject to peer review, in the prestigious Journal of Dairy Science.

SARE concluded, "Milk quality was not negatively affected by the use of any treatment. These herbal treatments are recommended for use if mastitis during the dry period and antibiotic use are of concern to the farmer.”

A European study at the University of Aberdeen similarly concluded, Cinnatube “significantly maintained reduced Strep. numbers. It was a valid alternative to antibiotics.” These findings were published in the Proceedings of the British Mastitis Conference.

Cinnatube is a natural, non-antibiotic intramammary infusion in the form of a viscous paste. Cinnatube is comprised entirely of GRAS/FEMA-GRAS listed components. Cinnatube is a teat sealant that mimics the cow’s natural defence, the keratin plug, during the critical period. This defence mechanism is important as every case of mastitis develops from bacteria that have entered the udder via the teat sphincter and teat canal. Cinnatube provides a safe, non-antibiotic, physical barrier between the udder and the environment. Cinnatube is OMRI listed so can be safely used in organic production.

Seventy percent of antibiotics used globally are used in animal agriculture. The widespread use of antibiotics results in huge selection pressure, i.e. those bacteria which have a mutation allowing them to survive will live on to reproduce, and, hence, result in greater overall resistance to the antibiotic. Resistance should be a concern for both the consumer and the farmer, both groups having experienced a very noticeable reduction in efficacy. It is notable that there have been no new antibiotic classes since 1987 and it is unsurprising that there is now a general public outcry against antibiotic use in farming. Since, antibiotics are becoming less effective in treating humans and animals, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warn: "If we are not careful, we will soon be in a post-antibiotic era."

As an industry, we should be responsible stewards of the benefits provided by antibiotics in treating active infections in both humans and animals. Committing to eliminate the prophylactic use of antibiotics should be among the top priorities of all dairy farmers. When it comes to the dry period, Cinnatube can be used without making compromise.

For more information about Cinnatube contact Zelpharma toll free on 1 888 448 0131, by email at sales@cinnatube.com or visit us at the World Dairy Expo booth#860.