Use of condensed tannin extract from quebracho trees to reduce methane emissions from cattle1

Summary

This Latin square feeding trial evaluated whether condensed tannin extract (91% tannin content) from quebracho trees could reduce methane emissions from growing cattle at dietary inclusion rates of 1–2% dry matter. Although the extract demonstrated protein-binding effects (reducing apparent crude protein digestibility), it failed to reduce enteric methane emissions across any measured metric (absolute or relative). The findings suggest that the condensed tannin extract, despite its chemical properties, did not translate to methane mitigation under these dietary and animal conditions.

Regional applicability

This research was conducted in Canada (likely Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada facilities based on author affiliations) and addresses a global challenge in reducing livestock greenhouse gas emissions. The findings are relevant to United Kingdom beef and mixed farming systems seeking dietary mitigation strategies for methane, though applicability depends on the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of importing quebracho tannin extract and on whether UK cattle diets and production systems respond similarly to this specific formulation.

Key measures

Enteric methane emissions (g/day, g/kg DM, % of GE intake, % of DE intake); apparent digestibility of DM, energy, fibre (ADF, NDF), crude protein; body weight, average daily gain, nutrient intakes

Outcomes reported

The study measured enteric methane emissions (in multiple units: g/d, g/kg DM, % of GE intake, % of DE intake) and nutrient digestibility in growing cattle fed quebracho tannin extract at 0, 1, and 2% of dietary dry matter. Body weight gain, feed intake, and apparent digestibility of protein and energy were also assessed.

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