A pill can now help cows stop burping and thereby cut a significant amount of methane emissions into the atmosphere and contribute to checking
global warming.
Known as bolus, the plant-based pill has been developed by scientists from the University of Hohenheim, Germany, and can reduce the amount of
methane emitted by cows in combination with an anti-flatulence diet.
Methane is produced in the fermentation process when cows digest grass. It is estimated that most of the gas is later burped out and contributes
to almost 4 per cent of greenhouse gas emissions.
The scientists believe that the pill will help trap some of the energy from methane and boost metabolism in cows. The theory is that cows will use
the methane to produce glucose instead of passing it out as wind.
This higher metabolism, in turn, will help the cows produce more milk, the scientists claim.
We are a voice to you; you have been a support to us. Together we build journalism that is independent, credible and fearless. You can further help us by making a donation. This will mean a lot for our ability to bring you news, perspectives and analysis from the ground so that we can make change together.
.png)
Comments are moderated and will be published only after the site moderator’s approval. Please use a genuine email ID and provide your name. Selected comments may also be used in the ‘Letters’ section of the Down To Earth print edition.