DSM-Firmenich’s methane-reducing additive receives approval in Japan

JAPAN – DSM-Firmenich has achieved a new milestone in sustainable agriculture with the recent approval of its methane-reducing feed additive, Bovaer, for use with dairy and beef cattle in Japan. 

This approval reinforces Japan’s commitment to reducing agricultural emissions and aligns with the country’s MIDORI strategy, a comprehensive plan for creating sustainable food systems introduced by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF) in 2021.

Japan, a signatory of the Global Methane Pledge, aims to reduce methane emissions by 11% by 2030 (compared to 2013 levels). 

With around four million dairy and beef cattle nationwide, Bovaer’s approval offers a practical solution to help Japanese farmers reduce their environmental impact. 

Extensive studies have shown that Bovaer can significantly cut methane emissions by up to 30% in dairy cows and 45% in beef feedlots with just a quarter teaspoon of the additive per cow per day.

“We are excited to introduce Bovaer in support of Japan’s environmental ambitions to reduce methane emissions from cattle and substantially impact global climate-change efforts,” said Mark van Nieuwland, senior vice president of Bovaer at DSM-Firmenich.

He added that the approval “will further accelerate the transformation towards more sustainable farming in Japan,” especially through partnerships with leading Japanese dairy companies.

Japan’s approval of Bovaer closely follows a similar milestone in South Korea, where the additive gained authorisation for use with beef cattle in September. 

South Korea’s focus on sustainable agriculture aligns with the Global Methane Pledge as the country works to reduce emissions and implement a low-methane feed program. 

The country, home to approximately 3.6 million beef cattle, including the popular Hanwoo breed, now benefits from Bovaer’s ability to cut emissions and enhance the sustainability of its cattle industry. 

“Together, we can make a substantial impact on global climate change efforts,” van Nieuwland emphasised, noting the importance of industry-wide collaboration in reaching South Korea’s climate goals.

DSM-Firmenich’s advancements in Asia reflect a broader global strategy to mitigate methane emissions in agriculture. 

Following approvals in Japan and South Korea, the company is now preparing to enter the Chinese dairy market by collaborating with China Modern Dairy Holdings Ltd. 

The initiative, launched in November 2023, targets a 30% reduction in methane emissions among dairy cattle, in line with China’s Methane Emissions Control Action Plan.

Currently, Bovaer is available in 67 countries, including the EU, the UK, and the US, making DSM-Firmenich a global leader in agricultural methane reduction.

With its expanding presence in Asia, the company is further strengthening its position as a key player in advancing sustainable livestock farming.

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