VPA Australia Bovaer® Statement

In recent weeks, misinformation and controversy have emerged online regarding the safe use of Bovaer®, a feed additive specifically developed to reduce methane emissions from cows. Bovaer® has undergone over 15 years of rigorous research and is currently utilised in numerous countries globally, representing a crucial step in reducing the dairy industry's carbon footprint.

At VPA, we believe it is imperative to address these concerns by disseminating accurate information and putting an end to the spread of misinformation. Our commitment to minimising our environmental impact remains steadfast, while simultaneously prioritising the health and welfare of both consumers and our animals.

DSM Firmenich, the manufacturer of Bovaer® is fully transparent and provides the facts about their products.

Here’s what we know:

• Safety and Approval: Bovaer® is a leading feed supplement rigorously assessed and approved as safe by esteemed regulatory bodies, including the UK and EU Food Safety Authorities, along with numerous other international authorities.
• Methane Reduction: Bovaer® effectively reduces methane emissions in cows, a potent greenhouse gas. It is included in cow feed at a ratio of 1 gram per 20kg of feed.
•  Consumer Safety: Bovaer® is entirely metabolised within the cow's digestive system, ensuring no residues are present in milk or meat. This guarantees zero consumer exposure. Extensive research consistently demonstrates its safety for consumers, farmers, and animals, with no adverse effects on milk production, reproduction, or animal health.
• Rigorous Testing: Bovaer® has undergone comprehensive and rigorous testing protocols to confirm its safety for both cows and humans.
• Proven Track Record: Developed over 15 years of dedicated research, Bovaer® is currently utilised in approximately 25 countries, benefiting more than 200,000 cows.
• Regulatory Endorsement: Regulatory bodies, such as the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the UK Food Standards Agency, have granted approval for Bovaer® use based on robust scientific evidence. These authorities have concluded that Bovaer® poses no harm to animals and has no negative impact on their health, productivity, or the quality of milk.  

For more information on the Bovaer® product from DSM Firmenich:  DSM Firmenich statement on Bovaer (Dec 2024)  

Together with our industry partners, striving to produce healthy and high-quality products is at the heart of what we do daily. We strive to achieve this with utmost care for safety for all consumer, farmer and animal, with a strong commitment to minimising our environmental footprint.