It seems that every week there’s a new supplement trend across different social media platforms. One supplement category gaining traction as of late has been colostrum. According to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, “Colostrum is a nutrient-dense fluid produced by mammalian mothers that’s fed to newborns to help support their immune system, gut health, and overall well-being.” (1)(2)(3)
Similar to the best probiotic supplements targeting gut health, colostrum supplements have been praised for their digestive benefits along with influences related to muscle recovery, immune support, cellular health, and more. (1) While brands are starting to emerge from every which way, ARMRA Colostrum has begun to stand out thanks to its convenient, travel-ready packaging and available flavor options that can be more appealing than the typical dairy-like taste and texture of other colostrum powders.
After testing this bovine colostrum supplement for multiple weeks, we feel it’s a good way to begin your journey with what others call “liquid gold.” The powder mixes easily enough for fast consumption, and we appreciate the flavored offerings that bring some extra variety to the table. However, the cost per serving does limit this powder’s reach, and the supplement facts are missing some key pieces of information that would otherwise take this nutrient-dense powder to new heights. In this ARMRA Colostrum review, we’ll examine this trending supplement’s full formulation along with real-world factors like taste, potential side effects, and (of course) value. With guidance from our supplement testing methodology, we also rated this colostrum powder in key categories based on our personal experience and comparison to the six other colostrum products we have in testing. Ready to get a “moove” on? Let’s get into our findings.
This simple yet nutrient-dense supplement delivers 1 gram of proprietary bovine colostrum concentrate per serving for perks related to immunity, muscle recovery, energy levels, skin health, hair health, and more. Plus, ARMRA Colostrum is available in a range of flavors perfect for those with particular palates.
Medical disclaimer: The content on BarBend is meant to be informative in nature, but it should not be taken as medical advice. The opinions and articles on this site are not intended for use as diagnosis, prevention, and/or treatment of health problems. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before beginning a new fitness, nutritional, and/or supplement routine. Individual needs for vitamins and minerals will vary.
Main Takeaways
- ARMRA Colostrum is available in four flavored options for improved taste and mixability in beverages like smoothies and shakes.
- This trending powder does contain a 1-gram serving of proprietary bovine colostrum, but the brand does not list the immunoglobulin G volume per serving — a key spec when determining the quality of your chosen colostrum supplement,
- ARMRA Colostrum is available in travel sticks as well as 90- or 120-serving containers, but note that the tubs may be the better bargain with costs per serving beginning at roughly $0.92.
ARMRA Colostrum Specs
Price Per Serving | Starting at $0.92 |
Serving Size | 1 packet (1g) or 1 scoop (1g) |
Colostrum Per Serving | 1g |
Immunoglobulin G Volume Per Serving | Not listed online |
Available Flavors | Unflavored, Vine Watermelon, Arctic Chai, Blood Orange, Sungold Apricot |
Third Party Testing | Yes (certifying lab not listed) |
ARMRA Colostrum (also known as ARMRA Immune Revival) is available in either travel-convenient packets or standalone containers up to 120 servings (flavored colostrum options will contain 90 servings per container). Costs per serving begin at roughly $0.92, with the single-use packets costing more given the extra materials. We’ve also found that flavored options cost roughly $10 more than the unflavored variety, and while not a major price difference, it is noteworthy when trying to score the best deal.
Unlike other colostrum powders that can stick to a single Unflavored makeup or traditional Chocolate, Vanilla, or Cocoa varieties, this ARMRA offering is available in five different compositions — Unflavored, Vine Watermelon, Arctic Chai, Blood Orange, and Sungold Apricot. Having a fruit-centric flavor can make this colostrum option more appealing to athletes wanting a reprieve from classic tastes like chocolate and can open more doors to adding the powder to your favorite morning smoothie or other recipe with nutrient-dense foods.
From a formulation standpoint, there aren’t many callouts to speak of … and that’s a good thing! Yes, flavored ARMRA Colostrum offerings will include added ingredients like organic stevia leaf extract and natural flavor agents, but the base product consists solely of a proprietary bovine colostrum concentrate. Each serving contains 1 gram of the “liquid gold” and the brand suggests taking between one and three servings daily for optimal results. “Research on proper colostrum dosing is all over the place, but I’ve found that most studies recommended between 500 milligrams and 1 gram per serving,” adds Bourgeois in reference to this 1-gram ARMRA dosage. (4)
Finally, ARMRA Colostrum is keto certified, non-GMO, glyphosate-free, third-party tested, and manufactured in a facility following Good Manufacturing Practices. This can be reassuring to those that question the quality and potency of their supplements, although we’ve yet to fully confirm which independent lab awarded the third-party approval.
Who Should Use / Who Shouldn’t Use ARMRA Colostrum
While ARMRA Colostrum can be a simple addition to your daily wellness regimen for the sake of improved immune function, gut health, energy levels, and more, there are certain camps that should avoid consuming this bioavailable powder. (1)(2)(5) Typically, colostrum supplements are sourced from bovine, similar to the best protein powders derived from cow’s milk. As such, those with a lactose intolerance or athletes following a vegan diet may want to avoid supplementing with this bovine-sourced powder.
And as with any new supplement — whether it be one of the best collagen peptide supplements, BCAAs, pre-workouts, or, even, multivitamins — it’s always advisable to speak to your personal healthcare provider prior to the start of your routine. We’ve also listed a handful of groups below that we feel could benefit from ARMA Colostrum along with some that may fare better with a different option.
Recommended for:
- Athletes wanting a simplified powder for better immune health, gastrointestinal function, and supported skin, nail, and hair growth
- Individuals wanting a colostrum powder with fruit-based flavors
- People in need of a travel-ready supplement with convenient single-serving packaging
Not Recommended for:
- Athletes with a known dairy sensitivity or allergy
- Those wanting a comprehensive breakdown of the IgG volume within their colostrum supplement of choice
- Budget-minded athletes looking for a colostrum powder cheaper than $0.92 per serving
Our Experience Using ARMRA Colostrum
The BarBend team is made up of competitive athletes, certified personal trainers, nutrition coaches, and lifelong fitness enthusiasts. To date, we’ve kept up with the colostrum hype by testing five high-quality supplements from reputable brands — ARMA Colostrum, included. For this particular review, Caine Wilkes, BarBend editorial team member and former Olympian, trialed ARMRA for multiple weeks, examining its performance, solubility, taste, and formulation in accordance with our supplement testing methodology. Ratings were given in these categories, among others, on a scale of 1 (lowest) to 5 (highest). Here’s how ARMRA Colostrum fared during these testing protocols.
Ingredients and Formulation
In terms of ingredient simplicity, ARMRA Colostrum is a standout with the brand’s proprietary bovine colostrum concentrate serving as the foundational bioactive compound (flavored options do contain natural sweeteners and dyes). “I also appreciate that there are no added sugars, even in the flavored versions of the powder,” adds Wilkes. However, while we appreciate the short and to-the-point nature of the supplement facts (a definite change of pace from, say, some of the best greens powders that contain a laundry list of included compounds), there is one glaring omission that truly outlines how potent a colostrum supplement is: immunoglobulin G volume.
According to Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD, “The heightened presence of immunoglobulin G (IgG) in bovine colostrum is what fuels its potential to support the immune system amongst other overall health benefits. (6) As such, it’s important to look for a colostrum powder with high IgG volumes or concentrations.” Unfortunately, though, ARMRA does not list its IgG volume within the formulation, so we cannot rightfully score the makeup any higher than a 1.5 out of 5. Other colostrum supplements we’ve tested have the IgG concentration clearly noted across the supplement facts with some offerings equating to 20% or more of the delivered bovine colostrum. With ARMRA, though, there’s just no way of telling.
Taste
OK, so there are some questions surrounding the actual potency of this colostrum powder, but Wilkes notes that there’s no gray areas when it comes to taste. “For my trials, I opted for the Unflavored option, but I do appreciate that ARMRA offers fruit-based flavors for those more averse to dairy-based tastes,” he states in reference to his 4.5-out-of-5 taste rating. “The Unflavored powder has a milky aesthetic to it, albeit subtle. It practically disappears, though, when you add it to a shake or smoothie. I can easily see myself using this as an add-on to my regular protein shakes — there are zero unpleasant notes.”
While getting each 1-gram serving down was easy enough, Wilkes also points out that the taste doesn’t linger in your mouth for too long, and he noted no unwanted side effects. “I can’t say for certain how much this powder has influenced my athletic performance just yet, but I can attest to no bloating or stomach rumbles,” he adds.
Solubility
According to the brand, ARMRA can be mixed in a cold beverage of your choice or taken as a dry scoop. While we’re normally against dry-scooping your supplements — don’t think about dry-scooping pre-workout, ever — Wilkes states that ARMRA Colostrum is OK to throw down the hatch on its own, both from a health and experience perspective. “I was skeptical, at first, but the powder quickly began dissolving once it hit my tongue,” he states. “I admittedly chased it with a bit of water but wouldn’t be opposed to trying this method in the future.”
For those sticking to their tried-and-true best shaker bottle, Wilkes adds that ARMRA Colostrum earns a perfect 5-out-of-5 for solubility. “I don’t see any clumps or residue post-blending, although it does have a tendency to froth up. Be sure your cap is well secured before shaking this powder into your beverage of choice,” he states.
Price Per Serving
ARMRA Colostrum is available in travel-ready packets or standard containers up to 120 servings. According to our math, costs per serving begin at roughly $0.92. However, we rate the value at a conservative 3.5 out of 5 since these metrics can begin to skew if you opt for one of ARMRA’s flavored options. “I’ve also noticed that select flavors are only available in tubs or packets, while others are offered in both packaging,” states Wilkes. When considering this colostrum powder for your daily routine, be sure to crunch the numbers before ordering a tub of your own.
Third Party Testing
According to the brand, ARMRA Colostrum is gluten-free, non-GMO, glyphosate-free, and manufactured in a GMP-compliant facility. The formulation is also third-party tested for heavy metals and other contaminants, giving athletes an added sense of reassurance. We rate the third-party testing at 2 out of 5, though, since the included bovine colostrum is part of a proprietary blend, and there is no literature on the certifying lab.
What to Consider Before Buying ARMRA Colostrum
Like any popular supplement — from the best creatine gummies to BCAAs, pre-workouts, and more — you should enter your purchasing journey with a keen eye and base of background information. Before adding a colostrum supplement like ARMRA Colostrum to your online cart, here are a few factors worth pondering over.
- Formulation: Typically, colostrum powders can feature a simplified supplement facts sheet, but it can always be wise to scan through the listed ingredients and identify any personal allergens or unwanted additives such as added sugars. We also recommend opting for colostrum supplements with a listed immunoglobulin G volume, as this can better indicate the quality of the supplement and its effects on immune health. (6) The higher the IgG volume, the better the quality.
- Colostrum Sourcing: “Bovine colostrum is vital for the health and wellness of newborn calves, so any colostrum used for supplements should be sourced from the excess produced once the calf has been fully nursed,” states Chelsea Rae Bourgeois, MS, RDN, LD. Try to find a colostrum powder that sources its colostrum from the created surplus — the 5-to-10 liters of excess colostrum produced by the mother that would otherwise be deemed as waste in the dairy industry. (7)
- Available Flavors: While natural colostrum has a subtle dairy-like flavor, some may prefer a different taste as part of their regular supplement routine. Search for a colostrum offered in different flavors that appeal to your tendencies and preferences. It can also be wise to seek out a powder available in multiple options to help prevent flavor fatigue over extended use.
- Third-Party Testing: “Supplements are not regulated by the FDA, so choosing a product that goes beyond standard requirements by exposing itself to independent testing can help provide reassurance that what’s listed on the supplement facts is actually in the makeup,” states Bourgeois.
- Value: No supplement should tank your budget. When searching for an ideal colostrum supplement, take a look at the cost per serving and determine whether you can comfortably afford that price on a regular schedule. You can also look for brands offering ‘Subscribe & Save’ services that can help you reach a discounted order total in exchange for automatic repeat deliveries.
ARMRA Colostrum Vs. Competitors
With the category growing in popularity across social media, it’s no surprise that ARMRA Colostrum has some competition. We’ve been slowly growing our roster of tested colostrum powders, so while we may not know as many competitors as we would for, say, some of the best creatine supplements, we are making strides. Below, we’ve compiled key specs for two popular colostrum powders we feel match up well to ARMA’s offering — Cowboy Colostrum Nature’s Gold and PerCoBa Colostrum Instant Powder.
ARMRA Colostrum | Cowboy Colostrum Nature’s Gold — Unflavored | PerCoBa Colostrum Instant Powder | |
Price Per Serving | Starting at $0.92 | Starting at $1.73 | Starting at $1.06 |
Serving Size | 1 packet (1g) or 1 scoop (1g) | 1 packet (3.4g) or 1 scoop (3.4g) | 1 scoop (3g) |
Colostrum Per Serving | 1g | 3g | 3g |
Immunoglobulin G Volume Per Serving | Not listed online | Not listed online | 750mg |
Available Flavors | Unflavored, Vine Watermelon, Arctic Chai, Blood Orange, Sungold Apricot | Unflavored, Vanilla, Chocolate | Unflavored |
Third Party Testing | Yes (certifying lab not listed) | Yes (certifying lab not listed) | No |
Next to ARMRA, I’d personally say that Cowboy Colostrum is one of the most recognizable powders in the category given its impressive marketing campaign. On paper, both products are relatively similar in that they’re offered as standalone tubs or travel-friendly packets and both offer additional flavors for added variety. While Nature’s Gold does provide a heftier dose of bovine colostrum (3 grams to ARMRA’s 1 gram) it still does not list the IgG volume per serving. Additionally, the cost per serving is much higher with the lowest total starting at roughly $1.73.
PerCoBa Colostrum Instant Powder is a favorite of mine given its approachable price point of $1.06 as well as its 3-gram serving of bovine colostrum. Perhaps the biggest perk, though, is the brand lists the IgG volume directly on the supplement facts for added clarity. Unfortunately, though, flavor fiends may find this powder underwhelming — there are no additional options beyond the Unflavored variety. Plus, PerCoBa is not third-party tested, although the supplement is non-GMO, gluten-free, and does hold a ColosTrue Gold assurance stamp.
Places to Buy ARMRA Colostrum
You can purchase ARMRA Colostrum directly from the brand’s retail site. Additionally, we’ve found this popular colostrum powder at select third-party retailers including Walmart, Target, and Amazon.
Customer Experience and Brand Reputation
ARMRA was founded by Sarah Rahal, MD, a double board-certified pediatric neurologist with expertise in environmental health and quantum biology. Alongside its foundational colostrum powder, the brand also offers a ‘Performance Revival’ powder that features added organic cacao, black cumin, and tart cherry powder for boosted endurance, muscle recovery, and immune support. (1)(2)(8)(9) To reach the brand with any inquiries, you can use the ‘Contact’ tab at the bottom of armra.com or utilize the brand’s ‘Live Chat’ feature for quick responses.
In terms of customer reviews, ARMRA Colostrum currently boasts a 4.8-out-of-5 rating based on over 8,800 responses. Customers typically praise the powder for its simple mixability and noticeable benefits, particularly when it comes to hair health — another potential benefit of colostrum supplementation. (10) “After a couple of months, I began to notice new baby hairs standing up all over my head! I’m so thrilled,” states one positive customer response.
Our Final Verdict on ARMRA Colostrum
So, is ARMRA Colostrum worth it? In our eyes, yes. We appreciate the worthwhile colostrum dosage of 1 gram, and the fact that the powder is available in multiple packaging and flavor formats does cater to a range of different needs and preferences. While there is still room for improvement regarding the supplement facts list and price point, we do feel this is a standout in the trending colostrum supplement category.
When shopping for a colostrum supplement for your own routine, remember to focus on products with transparent labels, particularly those listing the immunoglobulin G volume per serving. Like other supps including the best whey isolates, pre-workouts, and more, it can also be wise to seek out powders that have been third-party tested for added clarity and reassurance. Stick to your budget, find an appealing flavor, and get ready to elevate your daily wellness regimen, one scoop at a time.
ARMRA Colostrum Review FAQs
How much does ARMRA Colostrum cost?
You can purchase ARMRA Colostrum in standard tubs up to 120 servings or in packages of 30 travel-ready, single-use packets. Costs per serving start at roughly $0.92.
Where is ARMRA Colostrum sourced from?
ARMRA Colostrum is sourced from the excess colostrum produced by grass-fed cows after birth. This calf-first approach ensures that young calves are given the proper amount of nutrient-dense colostrum for overall health and immunity while also upcycling the leftover colostrum that would, otherwise, be deemed as waste by the dairy industry. (7)
How long does it take to see results from ARMRA Colostrum?
The perceived benefits of colostrum supplementation can be subjective from one athlete to the next. While some may report positive changes to gut health and energy levels in just a few weeks, other perks like skin and hair vitality may take longer to become noticeable. Remember, too, that positive results are generated by consistent supplementation — take your recommended servings as scheduled and you can set yourself up for more success.
Is colostrum better than collagen?
Both collagen and colostrum are bioactive nutrients with a range of health benefits. Determining which one is “better” comes down to your personal needs and wants. The benefits of colostrum, for example, include boosted immunity, muscle recovery, gut health, and more, while collagen has been primarily linked to joint health, skin vitality, and improved muscle protein synthesis.
References
- Guberti, M., Botti, S., Capuzzo, M. T., Nardozi, S., Fusco, A., Cera, A., Dugo, L., Piredda, M., & De Marinis, M. G. (2021). Bovine colostrum applications in sick and healthy people: A systematic review. Nutrients, 13(7), 2194. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/7/2194
- Arslan, A., Kaplan, M., Duman, H., Bayraktar, A., Ertürk, M., Henrick, B. M., Frese, S. A., & Karav, S. (2021). Bovine colostrum and its potential for human health and Nutrition. Frontiers in Nutrition, 8. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8255475/
- Ooi, T. C., Ahmad, A., Rajab, N. F., & Sharif, R. (2023). The effects of 12 weeks Colostrum Milk Supplementation on the expression levels of pro-inflammatory mediators and metabolic changes among older adults: Findings from the biomarkers and untargeted metabolomic analysis. Nutrients, 15(14), 3184. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10384749/
- Baśkiewicz-Hałasa, M., Stachowska, E., Grochans, E., Maciejewska-Markiewicz, D., Bühner, L., Skonieczna-Żydecka, K., & Hałasa, M. (2023). Moderate dose bovine colostrum supplementation in prevention of Upper Respiratory Tract Infections in medical university students: A randomized, triple blind, placebo-controlled trial. Nutrients, 15(8), 1925. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10146600/
- Yalçıntaş, Y. M., Duman, H., López, J. M., Portocarrero, A. C., Lombardo, M., Khallouki, F., Koch, W., Bordiga, M., El-Seedi, H., Raposo, A., Alves, J. L., & Karav, S. (2024). Revealing the potency of growth factors in bovine colostrum. Nutrients, 16(14), 2359. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11279796/
- Geiger, A. J. (2020). Colostrum: Back to basics with Immunoglobulins. Journal of Animal Science, 98(Supplement_1). https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7433919/
- Bovine colostrum powder-production – R&D. Biodane Pharma A/S. (n.d.). https://biodanepharma.info/bovine-colostrum-powder-production/
- Hannan, Md. A., Rahman, Md. A., Sohag, A. A., Uddin, Md. J., Dash, R., Sikder, M. H., Rahman, Md. S., Timalsina, B., Munni, Y. A., Sarker, P. P., Alam, M., Mohibbullah, Md., Haque, Md. N., Jahan, I., Hossain, Md. T., Afrin, T., Rahman, Md. M., Tahjib-Ul-Arif, Md., Mitra, S., … Kim, B. (2021). Black cumin (Nigella sativa L.): A comprehensive review on Phytochemistry, health benefits, molecular pharmacology, and safety. Nutrients, 13(6), 1784. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34073784/
- Levers, K., Dalton, R., Galvan, E., Goodenough, C., O’Connor, A., Simbo, S., Barringer, N., Mertens-Talcott, S. U., Rasmussen, C., Greenwood, M., Riechman, S., Crouse, S., & Kreider, R. B. (2015). Effects of powdered montmorency tart cherry supplementation on an acute bout of intense lower body strength exercise in resistance trained males. Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, 12(1). https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26578852/
- Kim, H., Jang, Y., Kim, E. H., Jang, H., Cho, H., Han, G., Song, H. K., Kim, S. H., & Yang, Y. (2022). Potential of colostrum-derived exosomes for promoting hair regeneration through the transition from Telogen to Anagen Phase. Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology, 10. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8960251/