Why Use LAB Serum Over Pure Stock

In Korean Natural Farming (KNF), both LAB Pure Stock and LAB Serum serve valuable roles—but knowing when and why to use each can make a big difference in results. Let’s break it down.

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What’s the Difference?

LAB Pure Stock is made by fermenting rice water to isolate lactic acid bacteria (LAB). It’s a foundational microbial input—simple, light, and effective in compost or soil systems.

LAB Serum takes that same LAB-rich rice water and supercharges it by feeding it with raw milk. The result is a more potent, enzyme-rich microbial serum that carries added benefits for livestock, soil, and foliar use.

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Comparison Table

Feature

LAB Pure Stock

LAB Serum

Microbial Strength

Milder

Highly concentrated

Stability

Needs sugar to store at room temp

More stable after milk fermentation

Enzyme Content

Low

High—due to milk digestion

Digestive Health Support

Mild

Excellent for animals

Soil & Compost Use

✅

✅✅

Foliar & Environment Use

Occasional

Preferred

Animal Feed Ferments

Not ideal

Excellent

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Why Serum Wins in Most Cases

• Milk feeds the bacteria, creating more robust colonies that last longer and work harder.

• Enzymes from milk digestion help break down organic matter faster in soil, bedding, and compost.

• Serum is gentler on animals than vinegar or essential oil-based inputs, making it great for internal and external livestock support.

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When to Use Which

• Use LAB Serum when treating deep litter, fermenting feed, spraying animal housing, or applying to plants.

• Use LAB Pure Stock when you need a quick microbial boost, don’t have milk available, or want to inoculate compost piles.

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Final Thoughts

Both inputs are great, but serum gives you more bang for your buck—especially if you're using LAB as a regular part of your KNF routine. Think of pure stock as the starter, and serum as the super-fueled brew.

👉 Want to try them both? Get the printable recipe card set here: LAB Pure Stock & LAB Serum Recipes – KNF Printable Card Set