Algae cuts methane emissions from cattle

Adding 0.5% by weight of algae to cattle feed reduces methane emissions by 82.6%, according to a study by American scientists from the University of California

The researchers divided Angus and Hereford bulls into three groups. The first group was given food supplemented with dried and crushed red algae (Asparagopsis taxiformis) in an amount of 0.5% of the fresh weight. The second group 0.25%. The control group did not receive algae. The experiment lasted 21 weeks.

Algae-treated animals reduced methane emissions by 82.6%. At the same time, feed conversion (the ratio of animal weight gain to the mass of feed consumed) improved by 14%. Feed consumption was reduced by 16%. The cost of gaining a kilogram of livestock weight fell by 37 cents.

The researchers found that the less digestible fiber in the diet, the greater the effect of adding algae. The experimenters found no effect of additives on the quality and taste of beef.