UK researchers find garlic in feed reduces methane emission

Usage of garlic extract for livestock feed can reduce methane emissions by as much as 25%

The researchers found that mixing some unusual foods into cattle feed could sharply reduce methane emissions. The research measures the amount of methane burped out by livestock in specially-designed polytunnels.

Livestock currently produce 4% of the world's total greenhouse gas emissions, and the new diets could reduce that to 3%.

Professor Jamie Newbold, of Aberystwyth, said the research looked ''promising'' but it is still unclear how much effect the garlic extract would have on the actual taste of beef and milk.

He hopes the additives could also improve profits for farmers as it is believed the new feeds could boost beef production and milk yield.

Newbold and his colleagues are now looking into breeding new plants and feed with high sources of fat and sugar, as well as dietary additives such as garlic extract.