Colostrum is the first milk produced after birth and is particularly rich in immunoglobulins, antimicrobial peptides, and growth factors. It is important for the nutrition, growth, and development of newborn infants and contributes to the immunologic defence of neonates. Recent studies suggest that bovine colostrum or some of its constituents may be useful for the prevention and, to some extent, for the treatment of various infectious diseases. A variety of colostral based preparations have been used as feed supplements or colostrum substitutes for neonate calves and pigs. Numerous recent studies suggest that oral administration of bovine colostrum preparations may contribute to human health care both as part of health promoting diet and as an alternative or a supplement to the medical treatment of specified human diseases.