JBS Will Use Feed Additive To Reduce Methane

Brazilian meatpacking giant JBS SA says it will use Bovaer, a feed additive to reduce methane emissions in its global supply chains. JBS says it will partner with Royal DSM, a health and nutrition company, as part of a broader initiative to become carbon neutral by 2040.

Bovaer, developed by Netherlands-based DSM, consists of a molecule synthesize from two natural compounds that can help cut cow methane emissions by up to 90%, according to research. Bovaer received regulatory approval in Brazil in September.

Initially, JBS said it would give the additive to confined cattle. In six months, it plans to test it in a second market, which could be Australia or the United States where it has large operations.

In March, JBS announced it would commit to achieve net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2040. The company claimed it was the first major company in its sector to set a net-zero target. As part of its commitment, the company has signed on to the United Nations Global Compact’s Business Ambition for 1.5°C initiative, which aligns with the most ambitious aim of the Paris Agreement to limit global warming.

“Climate change is the great challenge of our time and we must act urgently to combat the negative effects of global warming,” said Gilberto Tomazoni, JBS global chief executive officer. “As one of the most diversified global food companies, we have an opportunity to leverage our scale and influence to help lead a sustainable transformation of agricultural markets that empowers producers, suppliers, customers and consumers. Agriculture can and must be part of the global climate solution. We believe through innovation, investment and collaboration, net zero is within our collective grasp.”