Could Oregano Save The Planet?

Oregano could stop cows from burping and help save the planet by reducing methane emissions, researchers have claimed.

21:06 10 February 2016

Cows produce between 70kg to 120kg of greenhouse methane, which they release as they chew the cud. This gas is 25 times more powerful than carbon dioxide and contributes to around 4.5per cent of all UK greenhouse gas emissions.

 

Researchers from Aarhus University said that cows can be stopped from burping by feeding them oregano, which is known for its high content of essential oils and its antimicrobial effect.

 

Senior researcher Kai Grevsen said: "We know that the market for dairy products is characterised by an increasing willingness to pay more for milk with special qualities or values, especially organic.

 

"We hope that in the project we will have a good and balanced dialogue with consumers about the climate and cattle production.

 

"It's also important to remember that the project is relevant not only for organic milk producers.

 

"Should the results be positive, they can be implemented on all cattle farms, conventional and organic, so there is a really large potential."