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Hoofprint Biome boosts cow nutrition while slashing methane burps

Apr 30, 2025
A groundbreaking startup is tackling methane emissions from cows by modifying their microbiomes with innovative enzymes. This approach not only reduces greenhouse gases but also improves nutrient availability for the animals. The co-founders discuss the significance of this solution for farmers and highlight new funding aimed at on-farm testing. It's an exciting venture that blends agriculture with environmental science!
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ANECDOTE

Farmer's View on Methane

  • Catherine Polkoff approached the methane problem like a farmer, focusing on animal health and productivity instead of climate science.
  • She and co-founder Scott Collins used enzymes to modify cow microbiomes, reducing methane and boosting nutrition.
INSIGHT

Enzyme Suppresses Methane Microbes

  • Hoofprint's enzyme feed additive tweaks the cow's rumen microbiome to suppress methane-producing microbes.
  • This targets a specific microbe subset that produces methane as a byproduct, lowering potent greenhouse gas emissions.
INSIGHT

Rumen Microbes Steal Nutrients

  • Cows have evolved a complex rumen microbiome to break down tough forage and release nutrients.
  • Some microbes steal nutrients for growth while producing methane, reducing feed efficiency for cows.
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