March 31, 2009
Fish oils in feed can reduce methane emissions
Omega 3 fatty acids in cattle feed may help to reduce the emission of methane from the animals, according to researchers from the University College Dublin.
Cows emit methane by belching, and a herd of 200 cows can produce an amount of methane in energy terms equivalent to more than four gallons of petrol.
The researchers found that adding 2 percent of fish oil to the animal feed could reduce one-fifth of methane, and the omega 3 fatty acids found in fish oils could also help the heart and circulatory system and improve meat quality.
Researcher Dr Lorraine Lillis said the fish oil affects the methane-producing bacteria in the rumen part of the cow's gut, leading to reduced emissions.
Understanding which microbial species are particularly influenced by changes in diet and relating them to methane production could bring about a more targeted approach to reducing methane emissions in animals, Lillis said.
However, while farmers are willing to modify feed to reduce emissions, there are currently few affordable options on the market and more research should be dedicated into this area, according to National Farmers Union adviser Jonathan Scurlock.
