A new in vitro trial conducted by Central Queensland University has yielded positive results for Rumin8’s methane reducing feed compound. The study suggests that the product reduced methane production by 99% (P = 0.001) when delivered aqueously.
A Central Queensland University laboratory trial of 13 methane-reducing feed compounds (MRCs) delivered by water has found that one almost eliminated methane production without impacting dry matter digestibility, Rumin8’s product.
“Of the 12 soluble and stable MRCs, one containing synthetic tribromomethane (Rumin8 Investigational Veterinary Product) reduced methane production by 99% (P = 0.001) when delivered aqueously in vitro, without a reduction in in vitro dry matter digestibility (IVDMD),” the study’s authors concluded.
The study noted that most methane-reducing compounds to date have been developed and tested in dairy or feedlot applications, yet most of the global cattle population is grass-fed. The objective of the study was to identify methane-reducing compounds that could be delivered via drinking water, which is more applicable to most global livestock farming systems.
The study first analysed each MRC for solubility and stability in an aqueous solution. The aqueous solutions containing the MRCs were then subjected to temperature variations and starting pH to assess their solubility and stability in simulated water trough conditions.
In vitro batch culture fermentations were then undertaken using a medium-quality tropical grass feed substrate to simulate pastures consumed by cattle in extensive grazing systems. Subsequently, measurements were taken to assess total gas and methane production, in vitro dry matter digestibility, and volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration.
“The clear standout compounds in terms of methane reduction were sodium monensin (64% methane reduction) and the Rumin8 IVP (99% methane reduction), delivering significant methane production reductions without impacting IVDMD,” the study concluded.
David Messina, CEO of Rumin8 said the CQU trial results were consistent with the trial results from other invitro and in vivo (animal) studies. The impact on IVDMD is important, as negative IVDMD is viewed as a proxy for productivity losses, as animals can’t convert the feed’s dry matter into energy.
“This trial indicated almost total methane elimination in a laboratory setting, which was really pleasing for Rumin8,” pointed out Messina. “The zero impact on dry matter digestibility is broadly consistent with the positive animal productivity results Rumin8 is achieving in animal trials globally.”
