February 14, 2024

 

US scientists develop livestock feed additives to reduce methane emissions

 
 


Researchers Matias Aguerre and Liliane Silva from Clemson University, South Carolina, US, are teaming up with counterparts from the University of Florida and Auburn University to devise additives for livestock feed aimed at curbing methane emissions produced by grass-fed beef cattle, Beef Magazine reported.

 

Methane, particularly enteric methane, is a by-product of ruminant digestion, emitted when animals like cattle digest forages, contributing to greenhouse gas levels when released into the atmosphere.

 

Aguerre, an assistant professor of animal and veterinary sciences, noted the importance of addressing enteric methane emissions, highlighting the slow progress made in mitigating them in the US.

 

The collaborative effort aims to develop additives utilizing innovative products and approaches to optimise microbial activity in the cow's rumen, a critical compartment in their stomach.

 

The additives, once developed, will be integrated into livestock feed to reduce methane emissions effectively.

 

Involving a diverse team of experts including biochemists, microbiologists, animal scientists, and Extension specialists, the project's overarching goal is to create safe, efficient, and cost-effective feed additives to combat enteric methane emissions in ruminants.

 

Clemson's research will be conducted at the Simpson Beef Cattle Farm near Pendleton, South Carolina, assessing the impact of various additive doses on methane emissions, rumen microbiome changes, and nutrient digestibility using cows, steers, and heifers.

 

The initiative also includes a multi-state training programme for Extension professionals, focusing on greenhouse gas emission reduction for environmental sustainability and enhanced animal production efficiency.

 

Silva, an assistant professor and Cooperative Extension Service livestock specialist, emphasised the importance of educating Extension agents on emerging technologies to support on-farm research and disseminate information to producers effectively.

 

The research findings and management practices demonstrated at the study sites will be shared with educators and producers to encourage the adoption of sustainable practices and enhance operational sustainability.

 

Funded by a US$5 million grant from the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture, with Clemson expected to receive US$1.3 million, the study aligns with the US government's efforts to address climate change sources effectively.

 

-      Beef Magazine

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