Arla has expressed its ambition to introduce Bovaer, a methane-reducing feed additive, in Sweden despite recent controversy, according to ATL.nu.

Bovaer, developed by DSM-Firmenich, has been approved in 68 countries, including by the EU Commission, and can cut methane emissions from cows by 30–45%. However, its high cost—around 1,000 SEK per cow annually—has hindered widespread adoption.

Trials with Bovaer in Sweden, Denmark, and Germany in 2023 showed positive results, but backlash emerged in the UK, fueled by misinformation. Sveriges Mjölkbönder has also criticized the supplement, urging Swedish dairies to reject it. Norrmejerier, which has used Bovaer since 2023, refute these claims, emphasizing its safety and effectiveness.

Denmark is set to lead large-scale implementation with government incentives, while Arla explores financing options to support Swedish farmers.

• We see Bovaer as a small but important piece of the puzzle in reducing climate impact. Our ambition is to gradually introduce Bovaer in Sweden as well, but we need to find solutions for financing it, says Max Wallenberg, , Arla’s press officer.

Other methane-reducing solutions, such as selective breeding and red algae supplements, are also being researched in Sweden. Experts caution that multiple strategies should be combined to avoid unintended impacts on production.

Despite consumer concerns, Arla and Norrmejerier remain committed to informing the public about Bovaer’s climate benefits and ensuring sustainable dairy farming.

Read the full article in ATL

Photo: Fødevarestyrelsen