Experimental batch of tannin-based feed premix for reducing stable emissions in ruminants

The EU's strategic aim to reduce methane (CH4) emissions, improve air quality, and
strengthen the EU's global leadership in the fight against climate change creates a need to design
alternative solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from livestock production. Livestock
production accounts for about 17 – 20% of the total 30 – 35% of global anthropogenic
emissions, representing a significant ecological burden. In addition to contributing to global
warming, CH4 formation in the rumen results in a loss of 2 – 12% of the animal's metabolic
energy intake. Therefore, the main goal of the SS06020190 project is the development of a new
feed supplement for cattle with an antimethanogenic effect while simultaneously eliminating
the negative impact on production, health, and animal welfare. In 2024, in cooperation with the
project partner, the company MIKROP Cebin, a functional sample of feed premix for ruminants
was designed to achieve these purposes. A pilot in vivo study conducted on cannulated cows
experimentally verified the supplement's effect. This experiment monitored the influence of the
new premix/supplement dietary addition on rumen fermentation parameters, the total count and
relative abundance of protozoal genera, and the production of enteric CH4.