DSM-Firmenich’s Bovaer secures market approval in South Korea

SOUTH KOREA – DSM-Firmenich’s groundbreaking methane-reducing feed additive, Bovaer, has received market approval for use with beef cattle in South Korea. 

It is now the country’s first authorised product specifically aimed at reducing methane emissions from livestock. 

This milestone, announced on September 9, 2024, marks a significant advancement in South Korea’s efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and bolster sustainable agricultural practices.

As a signatory of the Global Methane Pledge, a voluntary framework supporting nations to take action to reduce methane emissions by 30% from 2020 level collectively, South Korea has committed to significantly cutting methane emissions by 2030. 

Bovaer’s approval aligns with these national environmental goals, complementing the country’s recently launched low-methane feed program. 

With a beef cattle population of 3.6 million, including the renowned Hanwoo breed, the introduction of Bovaer offers farmers a powerful tool to reduce emissions efficiently.

Research shows that just a quarter teaspoon of Bovaer per cow per day can substantially reduce methane emissions, making it a crucial solution for enhancing the sustainability of South Korea’s beef production. 

The additive not only contributes to environmental efforts but also supports a more eco-friendly supply chain, benefiting both farmers and consumers.

“We are excited to introduce the first product approved in South Korea to reduce methane emissions from cattle,” said Mark van Nieuwland, Senior Vice President at DSM-Firmenich.

He emphasized the importance of collaboration across the beef industry to support South Korea’s climate goals. “Together, we can make a substantial impact on global climate-change efforts.“

This announcement follows DSM-Firmenich’s continued global expansion of Bovaer, with preparations underway to enter the Chinese dairy market in collaboration with China Modern Dairy Holdings Ltd. 

This partnership, launched in November 2023, aims to reduce methane emissions from dairy cattle by 30%, in accordance with China’s Methane Emissions Control Action Plan.

Registration in the Chinese market would represent a significant step forward in the global effort to reduce agricultural methane emissions and promote sustainability in dairy farming.

Currently, Bovaer is commercially available in 65 countries, including key markets such as the EU, the UK, and the US, positioning DSM-Firmenich at the forefront of global methane reduction in agriculture.

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