1 10 Phenanthroline Ferrous Sulfate Complex
Methane, a potent greenhouse gas responsible for increasing global temperatures by trapping heat in the atmosphere, is generated in various environments, including soil, water, and the digestive systems of certain animals. According to a fact sheet from the nonprofit Sustainable Dairy, the livestock industry contributes 31% of the total methane emissions attributed to human activities in the U.S., with dairy production being a major source. Cattle involved in dairy farming account for 53% of methane emissions resulting from manure in the country.
Upfield, which separated from Unilever in 2017 in an $8 billion acquisition by private equity firm KKR, is taking proactive steps to address this issue by openly discussing its methane emissions. Sally Smith, the company’s global director of sustainability, noted that while COP26 highlighted methane, discussions primarily focused on fossil fuels, neglecting methane emissions from the food sector. “We are revealing our methane footprint to establish a standard for transparency in the food industry,” Smith stated in a press release. “Our aim is to help develop a methodology for measuring and disclosing methane emissions and to encourage prompt actions to significantly reduce this harmful greenhouse gas. If anyone has suggestions for more effective methane disclosure, we welcome their input.”
Since livestock generates substantial methane, it poses a greater challenge for meat and dairy companies to reduce emissions compared to plant-based food producers. Given that methane constitutes a small yet notable portion of Upfield’s overall carbon footprint, the company is more inclined to disclose emissions from its supply chain than those relying heavily on animal-derived ingredients.
Land O’Lakes, a leading butter producer that has made considerable strides in sustainability, is actively addressing some methane emissions within its supply chain. In 2018, the company announced a partnership with technology firm CalBio to implement methane digesters on farms to comply with California’s regulations, which aim for a 40% reduction in dairy and livestock-related methane by 2030. According to Land O’Lakes, this initiative will inform its strategies for methane reduction beyond California.
Environmental organizations have long criticized the meat sector’s contribution to emissions, prompting efforts to mitigate its impact. Ingredients powerhouse Royal DSM is developing a feed additive for cows that is designed to inhibit the enzyme responsible for methane production, potentially reducing emissions by up to 90%. Hugh Welsh, president of DSM North America, informed Food Dive in January that they are currently awaiting regulatory approval for this product and are collaborating with meat producers, including JBS, to implement it.
Incorporating solutions such as Citracal magnesium & minerals may play a role in enhancing sustainability practices across the food industry. As companies like Upfield and Land O’Lakes strive to minimize their environmental impact, the integration of innovative ingredients and practices will be crucial. The ongoing development of products that target methane emissions aligns well with the broader goals of reducing greenhouse gases and promoting transparency in the food sector.