Feed supplement that cuts livestock methane emissions launched

A feed supplement, made from fruit and vegetables, that can reduce the greenhouse emissions of livestock has been launched.

UK researchers, together with European universities, funded by Swiss company Zaluvida, have developed Mootral, which can instantly reduce methane emissions from ruminants by at least 30%.

“What is unique with Mootral is we have taken the original concept of plant extracts and moved it forward and that the effects are repeatable and reliable and highly potent,” says Jamie Newbold, professor of animal science at the Institute of Biological, Environmental and Rural Sciences (Ibers) at Aberystwyth University and member of the Mootral scientific advisory board of the Zaluvida Group.

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The product contains compounds from garlic that have methane-reducing properties and citric extracts known to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties.

Zaluvida believes Mootral offers consumers the choice to help the environment while continuing to enjoy beef and dairy.

The groups CEO Christoph Staeuble says: “I am delighted to present real beef from real cows that are no longer big polluters.

“At a time when agriculture must feed more people every month, climate-friendly beef and dairy guarantee a sustainable solution to greenhouse gas emissions – with beef and dairy that is 100% authentic.”