ISSUE FOCUS 40 FEED & ADDITIVE MAGAZINE January 2025 A HOLISTIC APPROACH TO SUSTAINABILITY The development of Asparagopsis-based feed supplements represents a holistic approach to sustainability. Unlike methane reduction strategies that are being developed that involve synthetic chemicals or may require significant changes to farming practices or animal management, seaweed supplements are natural by definition, and properly formulated products can integrate seamlessly into existing feeding regimens. The seaweed can be cultivated in environmentally- responsible ways, creating a virtuous cycle of environmental stewardship. Furthermore, the whole-plant approach of using naturally-occurring seaweed means farmers can feel confident they're using a product that nature itself has perfected over millions of years. When carefully harvested and processed to preserve its beneficial properties, Asparagopsis maintains its effectiveness while meeting the highest standards for animal and human safety. SAFETY FIRST: A NATURAL HISTORY OF USE The safety profile of Asparagopsis is supported by both its long history of human consumption and extensive modern scientific research. For centuries, Asparagopsis have been used as a condiment by Hawaiians who prize the plant, which they call limu kohu, for its distinct flavor and who often eat it with fish or mixed into poi (a staple food made from taro root). More recently, leading toxicologists have validated its safety for use in animal feed, confirming that when properly processed and administered, it poses no risks to animal health or food safety. Indeed, research has shown that mixing the supplement into cattle's daily feed at just 0.5 per cent delivers optimal methane reduction while aiding the animals’ digestion. There is simply no need to extract anything from the plant, to concentrate the extracted materials or use synthetic analogs or some of the bioactives; the whole, natural plant is sufficient. ECONOMIC BENEFITS FOR FARMERS Beyond its environmental benefits in reducing methane, Asparagopsis supplementation can provide economic advantages for farmers. Research indicates that reducing methane production in cattle can potentially improve feed efficiency, as energy that would otherwise be lost as methane becomes available for growth and production. As carbon markets develop
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