Context

The need to provide the population with quality protein sources and at the same time reduce atmospheric concentrations of greenhouse gases (GHG) leads to the search for innovative tools to control and reduce methane production in cattle production.
Despite the fact that the beef cattle production system in Catalonia is not a major emitter of methane because it is very efficient in its processing, there is still room for improvement. Currently available technology will allow methane emissions to be estimated on commercial farms.
Ruminal activity is the source of methane generation by the animal, so inhibition of the rumen fermentation process may be a key aspect. Growth efficiency is also important since we would be reducing the ratio between kg of methane emitted and kg of meat produced. To this end, two strategies will be pursued in parallel, consisting of increasing rumen fat availability and the use of additives. Research will also be carried out into substitutes for palm oil such as rapeseed oil, sunflower oil, local by-products or local alternative products (camelina, insect oil or algae).
Once these alternative food sources have been identified and characterised, an in vitro screening methodology will be applied, from the results of which at least four strategies will be chosen. The critical points of the strategies under consideration and their technical and economic viability for large-scale use will be assessed for the development of feed.
In a third phase, the in vivo emissions of each of the chosen strategies will be quantified on the basis of actual field data, and guidelines for feed formulation and manufacture will be developed to reduce environmental impact.