Isle of Man Creamery not trialling methane-reducing feed additive

Creamery stressed its dedication to producing natural goods while maintaining animal welfare and environmental standards

The Isle of Man Creamery has confirmed its dairy producers are not participating in a trial of a methane-reducing feed additive, Boaver, following public concerns over the safety of the product.

The additive developed by Arla Foods, which is currently being trialled in some major UK retailers, has been highlighted in recent news coverage for its potential to lower methane emissions from dairy cows.

However consumer apprehension has arisen to the composition of Boaver - which includes silicon dioxide, propylene glycol, and the organic compound 3-NOP (3-nitrooxypropanol).

A 2023 report by the Food Standards Agency noted that 3-NOP could be corrosive to the eyes, irritating to skin, and potentially harmful if inhaled.

Managing Director of Isle of Man Creamery Findlay Macleod said: “We would like to reassure concerned customers that our farmer producers are not taking part in the trial of Bovaer.

“We are proud that Isle of Man Creamery milk and dairy is independently certified grass fed which guarantees that Manx cows are out to pasture a minimum of 200 days per year (current rolling 12-month average is 213 days) and a 70 percent grass-based diet (which rises to a minimum of 80 percent April – September).

“This helps to produce naturally healthy milk and ensures high levels of animal welfare for our herds.

“We have also worked hard to reduce our carbon emissions, through packaging changes to bio-based milk cartons, reduced haulage to the Island, factory energy saving initiatives and, as a local product, extremely low food miles.

“Customers can rest assured that Manx milk is fully traceable and we have the highest standards of food quality and safety which is monitored constantly by our in-house laboratory and technical team.”