Advances in understanding methane production in the dairy cow

Publication date: 27-03-2026
Extent: 28 pages

Contributions by: Mohammad Ramin and Petra Fant, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Sweden; and Miroslav Joch and Mariana Vadroňová, Czech University of Life Sciences, Czech Republic

Chapter synopsis:

Methane emissions from dairy cows are a process that represents an energy loss for the animal, prompting efforts to reduce methane emissions in dairy cows. Feed additives, particularly 3-NOP and Asparagopsis taxiformis, have shown promise, reducing CH₄ production by 20-40%. However, factors such as cost, effectiveness, and potential rumen adaptation must be considered. Accurate measurement of CH₄ emissions is crucial for evaluating reduction strategies, with the GreenFeed system being a practical tool for live gas exchange measurement, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and costs.

DOI: 10.19103/AS.2025.0157.03