Methane-reducing feed additives

In 2019, the Scottish Government set ambitious targets to deliver net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2045. In 2018, agriculture was responsible for 18% of Scotland’s total GHG emissions. More than half of this was attributed to methane (56%) with most methane arising from enteric fermentation (produced during digestion of feed by cattle and sheep). The Government’s net-zero target, therefore, creates strong demand for methane-mitigation technologies.

We explored  the potential of two close-to-market feed additive products designed to reduce enteric methane emissions. We made a formal assessment of published scientific literature and consulted with product manufacturers and industry specialists to understand product efficacy, current and likely future regulatory status and the challenges of practical implementation on Scottish farms. This summary paper captures the initial findings. Detailed results are currently protected by commercial confidentiality.