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Air pollution

Researchers Develop Novel Multi-Component Feed Additive for Methane Mitigation in Sheep

Strategic Insights

— 1 min read

Researchers from Rothamsted Research have developed a multi-component feed additive that reduces methane emissions and improves feed efficiency in sheep. The study involved 20 crossbred castrated male sheep divided into control and treatment groups, with the treatment group receiving a supplement containing medium-chain fatty acids, live yeast, plant-based agents, and Vitamin B. The results showed a 24% increase in daily feed intake in the treatment group, indicating a significant improvement in feed efficiency.

Key Takeaways:

  • The multi-component feed additive reduced methane emissions by an unspecified amount, but the study suggests that further dosage optimization and dietary integration could enhance its application across ruminant species.
  • The treatment group exhibited a 24% increase in daily feed intake, indicating a significant improvement in feed efficiency.
  • The study monitored feed intake, methane emissions, growth performance, and blood parameters using BioControl pens, GreenFeed units, and haematological analyses.
  • The research concluded that further evaluation of the feed additive's efficacy is needed to inform its application across different ruminant species.
  • The study was supported by BBSRC, BBSRC and NERC, and ERDF.
  • The researchers involved in the study included M. Jordana Rivero, Afsal A. Khan, Tersur T. Akpensuen, Paulo Meo-Filho, Simon Perez-Marquez, and Andy Jones.
  • The study's findings have implications for sustainable livestock production and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Statistics:

  • 20 crossbred castrated male sheep were used in the study.
  • The treatment group received 20 g/day of the multi-component feed additive for 71 days.
  • The study monitored feed intake, methane emissions, growth performance, and blood parameters over 71 days.
  • The treatment group exhibited a 24% increase in daily feed intake (* * p* * .
  • The research was published in Ruminants, a journal published by MDPI AG.

Sources:

  • Evaluating the Efficacy of a Novel Multi-Component Feed Additive for Methane Mitigation and Performance Enhancement in Sheep. Ruminants, 2025,5(2):17.
  • DOI: 10.3390/ruminants5020017
  • MDPI AG (publisher)
  • BioControl pens and GreenFeed units (equipment used in the study)
  • Rothamsted Research (research institution)
  • BBSRC, BBSRC and NERC, and ERDF (financial supporters)

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