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The anti-methane additive that’s taking social media by storm

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By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Euronews or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: UK supermarkets Tesco, Aldi, and Morrisons have launched a 90-day trial of Bovaer, a methane-reducing feed additive, in partnership with Arla Foods
While Bovaer aims to cut methane emissions from cows by up to 27% for dairy and 45% for beef cattle, it has sparked backlash on social media, with some shoppers calling for boycotts
Concerns include the additive’s long-term effects and its composition, which includes 3-NOP, flagged as an irritant by the UK Food Standards Agency

🔭 The context: Developed over 15 years by dsm-firmenich, Bovaer has been tested on over 100 farms in 20 countries and approved by EU, UK, and other food safety authorities
The additive aligns with Arla’s broader goal to reduce dairy production emissions by 30% by 2030
Despite scientific backing, misinformation and distrust have fueled resistance, with rumors of links to Bill Gates contributing to the uproar

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Livestock is a significant methane emitter, and additives like Bovaer could help reduce agriculture’s climate impact
However, public resistance highlights the challenges of introducing innovations in sustainable farming, emphasizing the need for transparency and consumer trust

⏭️ What's next: If the trial succeeds, Bovaer could be adopted more widely across British dairy farms, supporting national and global methane reduction targets
Organic producers and other critics are likely to push for further scrutiny and alternative solutions

💬 One quote: “Through collaboration as part of Arla’s FarmAhead Customer Partnership, we have the ability to address some of the climate challenges facing our food system,” stated the supermarkets in a shared announcement

📈 One stat: Bovaer can reduce CO2-equivalent emissions by one tonne per cow annually with just a quarter-teaspoon dose

Click for more news covering the latest on carbon

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