Danish dairy farmers have been under government mandate since October. A legally required feed additive called Bovaer is supposed to drastically reduce methane emissions from their animals. But this supposed step forward for climate goals is leading to emergencies in the barns. Cows are refusing feed, losing milk production, and in the worst cases, dying. Farmers fear for the welfare of their animals and their livelihoods – the additive is proving to be a risk for the entire industry. Some are already openly speaking of it as a nutritional ordeal. (nyheder.tv2: 01.11.25)
An experiment with dramatic consequences
Farmers are reporting new cases daily. One farm is losing two kilograms of milk production per cow. Others report animals with fever, diarrhea, and behavioral problems. The feed additive is hitting sensitive ruminants hard. Where methane emissions are supposed to be reduced, milk yields are falling. The climate goal is becoming a burden for both humans and animals.
The Danish research institution for agriculture and food production, SEGES Innovation, is documenting the incidents because the supposed additive is showing noticeable side effects. However, official authorities are downplaying the situation. A deep divide exists between emission reduction and animal welfare.
Research lags behind practical experience on the farms.
Aarhus University is investigating whether the feed additive negatively impacts animal welfare. However, reliable data will not be available until 2028. (jyllands-posten: 05.1.25) A dairy farmer sums it up: “If cows produce less milk or die, that doesn’t help the climate.”
Both methane and CO₂ are considered dangerous greenhouse gases. Nevertheless, the reduction in emissions comes at the expense of the animals. The additive, originally intended as a way to increase sustainability, is in reality disrupting the balance between productivity and animal health.
Growing criticism from agriculture and animal welfare groups
Organizations like Landbrug & Fødevarer (Danish Agriculture & Food Council) criticize the mandatory regulation. According to them, the climate target is overshadowing animal welfare. Animal rights activists are protesting against the measure, which was introduced without comprehensive impact studies.
Farmers are reporting their losses and applying for exemptions. But the process is complicated. Trust is dwindling. The economic damage is growing. Milk production is falling, while the reduction in methane emissions is barely verifiable.
Between Legal Obligation and Responsibility
The feed additive demonstrates just how risky political pressure can be. While politicians celebrate the CO₂ reduction target, farmers are fighting for the survival of their farms. The additive is becoming a burden. Obesity in cows is decreasing, but deaths are increasing.
Only a complete reassessment can do justice to animal welfare. Until then, Bovaer remains mandatory – and jeopardizes the future of the dairy industry far beyond Denmark. Methane may be the focus, but the death toll tells a different story.