MABICOW

Developing a methane-reducing additive for cattle feed from bioactive components in macroalgae

PROJECT INFO:

DURATION: 
2022-2025
 
FUNDING:
The Mission Partnership 
 

PARTNERS:
Aarhus University
DTI 
Ocean Rainforest
Lactobio
Chr. Hansen
Vilofoss 
DLG
Maripure ApS

CHALLENGE

Methane emissions from ruminants in livestock production

TECHNOLOGY

Macroalgae‑based feed additive with anti‑methanogenic properties

POTENTIAL

Significantly reduces methane emissions without compromising productivity

Goal

The aim of the project is to develop a methane-reducing additive for cattle feed from bioactive components in macroalgae.
Methane emissions from ruminants currently account for 35% of the greenhouse gas emissions from Danish farms. Bioactive components in Nordic macroalgae can limit methane production in the forestomach by at least 45%.
 

Plan

The project is expected to run for three years.
Macroalgae species with known ‘anti-methanogenic’ properties will be harvested and cultivated. Potential anti-methanogenic elements will then be identified and purified in a laboratory.
The project will use in vitro simulation to identify three to four chemical compounds with the best potential. These will then be used in a controlled feeding trial with dairy cows, measuring the effect on milk production, health and so on. The aim of the trial is to document a >45% reduction in methane.
 

Expected results

The project will develop a cattle feed additive that reduces cow methane emissions by >45% with no negative impact on productivity, animal health or food safety. The additive will be patented and ready for market launch three to five years after project completion.
As there is currently no additive for effective methane reduction on the market, demand for such a product is expected to be high.

PARTNERS:
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The project is part of the Mission Partnership, and the funding is provided by Innovation Fund Denmark.

We continuously open new calls and programmes that support innovation within food and bioresources.

Mette Kallestrup Spring

Mette Kallestrup Spring

Program Manager (mission partnership)

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