Sign in Subscribe
Air pollution

Reducing Methane Emissions in Dairy Cows through Innovative Feed Supplement

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Researchers at Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore have conducted a study to explore the effects of 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP) on enteric methane emissions and milk production characteristics in dairy cows. The study involved 30 mid-lactation multiparous cows, with an average of 190 ± 72 DIM and a milk yield of 36.8 ± 7.5 kg/d. The results show that supplementing 3-NOP reduced enteric methane production by 46% and increased milk protein and casein content.

Key Takeaways:

  • The study found that supplementing 3-NOP reduced enteric methane production by 46% regardless of the season.
  • The 3-NOP supplement increased milk protein and casein content, while decreasing milk urea contents.
  • The addition of 3-NOP to the diet increased apparent OM, CP, and NDF digestibility, independently of the season.
  • The study showed that supplementing 3-NOP affected the molar proportions of rumen VFA, with an increase in butyrate, valerate, isovalerate, and caproate.
  • Researchers observed that plasma concentrations of urea, nonesterified FA, Zn, and advanced oxidation protein products decreased with 3-NOP supplementation.
  • The study concluded that including 3-NOP in a high corn-silage and high-starch diet almost halved enteric CH emissions without adversely affecting milk yield and composition.

Statistics:

  • Average DIM of cows in the summer experiment: 190 ± 72 DIM
  • Average milk yield of cows in the summer experiment: 36.8 ± 7.5 kg/d
  • Percentage reduction in enteric methane production: 46%
  • Percentage increase in milk protein and casein content: × 4.8% and × 4% respectively
  • The study involved 30 mid-lactation multiparous cows

Sources:

  • "Effects of 3-nitrooxypropanol on enteric methane emissions and milk production characteristics in dairy cows fed a high corn-silage diet in different environmental conditions." Journal of Dairy Science, 2025.
  • "Researchers at Universita Cattolica del Sacro Cuore Release New Data on Global Warming and Climate Change." NewsRx, October 27, 2025.

Read more