More dairy farmers can seek exemption from Bovaer feed

More dairy farmers will be allowed to stop using the controversial feed additive Bovaer from Thursday, DR reports. The exemption will apply to farmers who experienced problems with the product last year, as well as farms where cows show symptoms of illness.

The Ministry of Nature and Animal Welfare announced the change. Anders Nørgaard, a dairy farmer and chairman of the Holstebro-Struer Farmers’ Association, said he welcomed the option. He has experienced problems with Bovaer on his own farm.

“It is a very, very big relief that if you do not trust that this product can be used in your herd without compromising animal welfare, you can now be exempted from it,” he said.

Bovaer is added to cattle feed to reduce methane emissions by limiting cows’ burping and flatulence. The product drew media attention last autumn after several farmers linked it to cows collapsing.

In December, the then agriculture, food and fisheries minister, Jacob Jensen, told dairy producers they could wait until autumn 2026 to begin using the feed. Nørgaard said the latest announcement had come somewhat late, as farmers had already bought the product and prepared feed plans. He said he would discuss with his team whether to start using it or take the new exemption.

In 2026, conventional dairy herds with more than 50 milking cows are required to use the methane-reducing feed for 80 days a year, according to the ministry.