An in-vitro study to assess the effect of Anpario’s Optomega additives on gas and methane production when supplemented in a dairy herd ration showed that both products in the range helped lower cumulative gas production during a 24-hour period.
The study was carried out by the University of Reading in association with independent feed additive manufacturer Anpario. Optomega Algae and Optomega Plus were supplemented at 100g/cow/day and 160g/cow/day respectively, and gas pressure readings were taken at regular intervals. Methane analysis was carried out using gas chromatography.
The results of the trial showed that alongside the main fertility benefits associated with supplementation, both Optomega products helped to lower cumulative gas production over a 24-hour period. Compared to control diets, the cumulative methane output was 10.8 per cent less in Optomega Plus supplemented cows and 6.6 per cent less in cows fed diets supplemented with Optomega Algae.
“To put the results into context, for a 200-cow dairy herd, the lower methane output could support a reduction in carbon footprint of up to 80t/year of CO2-equivalents with Optomega Plus, and up to 51t/year with Optomega Algae,” Anpario’s global technical director, Dr Wendy Wakeman, said.
“There’s global pressure on the ruminant sector to reduce methane output, especially from dairy cows. Hence, it’s extremely beneficial for producers that alongside the proven fertility and milk benefits, the addition of Optomega products to diets has also been shown to help lower methane production.”
The Optomega Range provides products renowned for their rich source of omega-3 fatty acids. This includes biologically important eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), both of which offer a multitude of benefits for dairy producers. Optomega products have demonstrated efficacy in supporting the establishment and maintenance of pregnancy, aiding mammary gland development, optimising milk yields, and enhancing omega-3 levels in milk for human consumption.
The range includes the well-established Optomega Plus that offers a rich source of EPA and DHA, and the recently launched Optomega Algae that provides a source of the omega-3 fatty acid DHA. Products are formulated on a unique carrier system that provides a dry, free-flowing powder and are packaged in foil-lined bags for optimum shelf-life and product freshness.
“Optomega provides dairy producers with a choice of high-quality omega-3 fatty acids that have been derived from either fish oil or microalgae, both of which are responsibly and sustainably sourced,” Dr Wakeman added.
