Trial Summary

The Effect of Optomega Plus on Methane Output in Dairy Cows

Summary

  • Methane is a strong greenhouse gas, which can be emitted from livestock and other agricultural practises.
  • Optomega Plus may help to reduce methane emissions by up to 10% in dairy cows.

BACKGROUND

  • Methane production from ruminants contributes significantly to greenhouse gases (GHG) in the atmosphere, although it is a natural phenomenon.
  • There is global pressure on the ruminant sector to reduce methane output, especially from dairy cows.

  • The addition of oils and omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to help reduce methane production.

  • Optomega Plus is a blend of sustainably sourced fish oils on a mineral carrier, rich in omeg-3 fatty acids.

TRIAL DESIGN

An in vitro study was carried out by the University of Reading to assess the effect of Optomega Plus on gas and methane production when supplemented in the ration. A standard procedure similar to Sinclair et al., (2005) was used in a 24-hour batch culture model, in triplicate. The basal total mixed ration (TMR) was a typical UK grass and maize silage-based diet plus concentrates. Optomega Plus was included to provide the equivalent of 160g per cow per day and gas pressure readings were taken at 0, 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12 & 24 hours. Methane analysis was carried out using gas chromatography.

RESULTS

Optomega Plus Dairy Graph
  • Cumulative gas production was reduced with Optomega Plus over the 24-hour period.
  • Cumulative methane output was 10.8% lower over 24 hours in cows fed diets supplemented with Optomega Plus compared to those fed the control TMR (Figure 1).

  • In context, for a 200 cow dairy herd, this could support a reduction in carbon footprint of up to 80 tonnes per year of CO2-equivalents.

  • Optomega Plus is effective in supporting the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy and may also help to reduce GHG emissions from dairy cows.


Optomega Plus | Sustainable Source of Omega-3 Rich in EPA DHA

Optomega Plus, Anpario's leading Omega-3 fatty acid supplement. Made from 100% natural high quality fish oil. Specifically formulated to ensure consistent high levels of EPA and DHA.

  • An excellent source of readily digestible energy.
  • Supports lactation performance and milk yield.
  • Feeding EPA and DHA can assist in elevating Omega-3 levels in milk.
  • EPA and DHA are well documented to support fertility in all ruminant species.


Have questions? Get in touch with us at info@anpariodirect.co.uk.

Disclaimer: All economic benefits claimed in this document were correct at the time of publication.