Cornell University Study, in Collaboration with Symbrosia and Danone North America, Investigates Seaweed Oil Extract to Reduce Livestock Methane Emissions
Source: The DairyNews
Symbrosia, a Hawaii-based cleantech startup specializing in seaweed-based solutions for livestock methane reduction, has partnered with Cornell University's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (Cornell CALS) for a groundbreaking study.
Supported by Danone North America, the research, led by Associate Professor Joe McFadden, aims to validate the effectiveness of an Asparagopsis-based seaweed oil extract in reducing livestock methane emissions, comparing it to Symbrosia's existing freeze-dried seaweed products.
Dr. Mallory Honan, Symbrosia's product and animal science lead, highlighted the study's thoroughness, encompassing aspects such as animal and human food safety, energetics, manure composition, and gas emissions. Additionally, the research will explore unique milk characteristics beyond the traditional parameters, assessing changes in the complete milk fatty acid profile.
The Asparagopsis species, known for its methane reduction properties, is utilized by Symbrosia in their freeze-dried product, SeaGraze™, which currently achieves a remarkable 70% - 80% reduction in methane emissions. The study will explore the efficacy of an Asparagopsis-based seaweed oil extract, offering potential advantages such as increased bioactive transference, solubility, and stability over time.
Methane emissions from dairy production contribute significantly to global emissions, with cattle accounting for approximately 8% of human-caused methane emissions. The study's success could have immediate climate benefits, surpassing the impact of carbon dioxide reduction alone.
Chris Adamo, Vice President of Public Affairs & Regenerative Agriculture Policy at Danone North America, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing climate change. Danone had previously led a funding round for Symbrosia in 2022, recognizing the company's commitment to innovative solutions.
Professor Joe McFadden emphasized the holistic scientific approach taken in the study to ensure sustained efficacy and safety of Asparagopsis-based seaweed oil extract as a methane mitigator for livestock. The research, set to commence in May 2024 using Holstein dairy cows, is expected to contribute valuable insights to sustainable agriculture and environmental impact.
Dr. Mallory Honan, Symbrosia's product and animal science lead, highlighted the study's thoroughness, encompassing aspects such as animal and human food safety, energetics, manure composition, and gas emissions. Additionally, the research will explore unique milk characteristics beyond the traditional parameters, assessing changes in the complete milk fatty acid profile.
The Asparagopsis species, known for its methane reduction properties, is utilized by Symbrosia in their freeze-dried product, SeaGraze™, which currently achieves a remarkable 70% - 80% reduction in methane emissions. The study will explore the efficacy of an Asparagopsis-based seaweed oil extract, offering potential advantages such as increased bioactive transference, solubility, and stability over time.
Methane emissions from dairy production contribute significantly to global emissions, with cattle accounting for approximately 8% of human-caused methane emissions. The study's success could have immediate climate benefits, surpassing the impact of carbon dioxide reduction alone.
Chris Adamo, Vice President of Public Affairs & Regenerative Agriculture Policy at Danone North America, emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in addressing climate change. Danone had previously led a funding round for Symbrosia in 2022, recognizing the company's commitment to innovative solutions.
Professor Joe McFadden emphasized the holistic scientific approach taken in the study to ensure sustained efficacy and safety of Asparagopsis-based seaweed oil extract as a methane mitigator for livestock. The research, set to commence in May 2024 using Holstein dairy cows, is expected to contribute valuable insights to sustainable agriculture and environmental impact.
