The Feed

Are Food Firms’ Efforts to Reduce Cow Methane Emissions Effective? An Interview with Mutian Niu

Methane emissions from cattle, a major contributor to climate change, have drawn increasing attention from multinational food companies. In a recent SWI swissinfo.ch article, Mutian Niu, professor of animal nutrition at ETH Zurich, shares expert insights on the role of feed additives in tackling this issue.

Mutian Niu: The Science Behind Feed Additives

Niu explains that methane from cows is primarily produced by microbes in their digestive system, particularly in the rumen. Scientists have been exploring ways to modify this microbial activity through feed additives, which can either inhibit key enzymes in methane production or alter gut conditions to suppress methanogenesis.

One of the most researched additives is 3-NOP (3-nitrooxypropanol), which has demonstrated a methane reduction potential of up to 30% in controlled trials. Other natural solutions, such as plant extracts and seaweed-based supplements, are also being tested. However, Niu emphasizes that the long-term effectiveness of these solutions depends on factors like diet composition, animal health, and farm management practices.

Beyond methane reduction, Niu highlights that some feed additives could increase milk production efficiency by redirecting energy that would otherwise be lost as methane. This dual benefit has made them an attractive option for both researchers and the dairy industry. However, Niu cautions that real-world results can vary, and more large-scale studies are needed to assess their impact across different farming systems.

Industry Efforts and Challenges

Food giants are promoting feed-based methane reduction as part of their sustainability strategies. Swiss farmers, for instance, have tested plant-based additives, achieving a 10-20% reduction in methane emissions. However, experts note that practical experience with these additives remains limited, and their effectiveness outside controlled studies is still uncertain.

The Road Ahead

While companies push forward with methane-reducing solutions, experts like Niu stress the need for long-term trials and policy support to ensure these methods are viable, cost-effective, and widely adopted.

👉 Read the full article on SWI swissinfo.ch to explore the full scope of the discussion. (external page Read More)

05.03.2025 (article created with the support of AI)