A research team from the Zaidín Experimental Station (EEZ-CSIC), Granada, has tested the effectiveness of Bovaer, an additive with the ability to reduce methane emissions by 30%, in animal tests. This molecular compound inhibits the activity of stomach microorganisms responsible for methane emissions. The EEZ study confirms that the use of the Bovaer additive does not compromise the safety of the ruminant or the environment, as well as not producing harmful effects on the digestion or ingestion of the animal. This additive will provide a new tool for the livestock sector to advance more sustainable food production systems, according to the researchers.
Recently, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has issued the first positive report in Europe on the use of this food additive to reduce methane emissions in ruminants.
The additive, which contains the molecule 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP), responsible for the anti-methanogenic activity, has been developed over the last 10 years and its application process for authorization and registration began two years ago by the company DSM Nutritional Products. The EEZ team has been a pioneer in testing the effectiveness of the molecule in animal trials and has participated in the identification of its mechanism of action, which has contributed to its approval.
The 3-NOP compound directly inhibits the activity of methanogenic archaea, the microorganisms responsible for the production of methane in the rumen, achieving a 30% reduction in emissions without affecting the digestion or health of the animal.
