In ruminants such as cattle, sheep, and goats, methane is produced in the rumen. There, microorganisms break down feed and make nutrients available to the animals. Methane is released as a byproduct of this process. For climate protection and efficient food production, it is important to reduce these methane losses or to produce more milk or meat with the same amount of methane. This can be achieved either by modifying the microorganisms in the rumen or by better matching feed, animal, and performance.
project CH4-Minus , the Institute for Livestock Research is investigating various feedstuffs and feed additives in a dairy herd. The aim is to examine their influence on methane production. A special feature of the project is the long trial period of at least one year. Some of the animals are fed the same feed over several stages of lactation, while others are fed a standard lactation. Two different basic feed rations are also being used.
Linseed meal is being tested because its linoleic acid content can reduce methane emissions and slightly improve efficiency. The feed additive Agolin, with its plant-based ingredients, is intended to improve animal health and thus efficiency. Bovar acts as an inhibitor and can reduce emissions.
The trial is taking place in the cattle research barn of the HBLFA . Feed intake, performance, health, and emissions are being fully recorded. Methane emissions are being determined using several measurement systems, including measurements in the respiration chamber and regular measurements at the feeding area. Another measurement campaign using the GreenFeed system is planned for spring 2026.
At the end of the project, reliable results will be available on how strongly animal feed and feed additives can influence methane production. These results provide an important basis for decisions in the areas of climate protection and agriculture.
