Seaweed for Cow Cud

One of the largest contributors to green house gases causing global warming is the methane emission from cattle rearing. In order to make cattle more climate friendly researchers at the University of California have come up with an interesting measure. They are adding a small quantity of seaweed to the feed of the cattle.

This radical supplement to the feed has resulted in 30% less methane emissions when they burp or pass gas. The science experiment was conducted on a dozen Holstein cows. The ocean algae used was first sweetened with molasses to disguise it’s salty taste and then mixed into the feed.

The UC Davis animal scientist monitoring the results, Ermias Kebreab, was surprised. He wasn’t expecting such a drastic change with the minimal quantity of seaweed added. A six month study is on the cards for determining the safety and efficacy of the seaweed infused diet. If it works seaweed growers will need to ramp up production to meet the demands of the dairy farmers.

Best of all, there will be less green house gases released into the atmosphere. Previously diet modifications for cattle to reduce emissions have included adding garlic, oregano, cinnamon and curry. Most have had a mixed response and not found as effective or promising as the seaweed.