Bovaer - the new kid on the block. The launch of this new cattle feed additive has been kept pretty quiet so if you haven't yet heard of it, you're not alone.
In this article, I'll explain what it is, why it's being used and whether we should be concerned for our health when consuming products from cattle who have had Bovaer added to their feed. Strap in!
So what exactly is Bovaer and what does it do?
Firstly, let's set the scene: we all know that methane emissions from cattle have been found to be a significant contributor to greenhouse gases. Bovaer, a cattle feed additive, has been developed to substantially reduce these emissions. Its active ingredient, 3-nitrooxypropanol (3-NOP), works by inhibiting an enzyme in the cow’s digestive system which is responsible for methane production. Studies suggest that Bovaer can reduce emissions by up to 30% in dairy cows and up to 45% in beef cattle.
However, while the thought behind the product is great and it may have the potential to offer exciting environmental benefits, in the absence of long terms studies, questions remain about its long-term impact. Let’s take a closer look.
Is Bovaer considered to be safe?
Bovaer has been rigorously tested and approved by top food safety agencies, including the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA).
According to these authorities, Bovaer has not been shown to negatively impact milk production, composition, or animal health. They confirm that the product is fully metabolized in the cow’s stomach, with no traces detected in the animal's milk.
They further say that despite concerns, there is no scientific evidence linking Bovaer to fertility issues or other health concerns, including cancer, in humans.
But should we be concerned?
Bovaer is ultimately a chemical and farmers must wear protective gear, such as gloves and masks, when handling the product in its concentrated form. While this is standard for many livestock additives, it has raised concerns about the product's effects in its concentrated form.
So when it comes to whether we need to be concerned or now, the honest answer is that we just don't know at this point. Food Safety agencies have confirmed Bovaer's safety but in the absence of long terms studies, it's important that we weigh up the environmental benefits with any potential health risks.
Where is Bovaer used and how can we avoid it?
So far we know that Arla foods, who make popular products like Lurpak, Cravendale, and Anchor, are testing Bovaer, and that supermarkets including Morrisons, Tesco, and Aldi have taken part in Bovaer trials.
The easiest way to avoid Bovaer products is to buy organic dairy and beef, as, at this point in time, Bovaer usage is not permitted under organic farming standards.
A final thought
This is a tricky one. Whilst the thought behind Bovaer is great, it's hard to be able to trust its safety in the absence of long term studies. You know that I would always recommend organic anyway, particularly when it comes to meat and dairy. Not only are you avoiding Bovaer with these products while some additional research is being conducted, but you are also avoiding exposure to hormones which are routinely used in standard farming practices.
What are your thoughts on Bovaer? I'd love to know.
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