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| - Last Updated on January 22, 2025 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that DSM’s Boaver poisons cows and humans to promote fake meat. We did the fact check and found that this claim is false.
The Claim
According to a Facebook post, “DSM’s Bovaer reduces cattle fertility and contaminates meat and dairy to harm consumers, aiming to promote lab-grown meat through vested interests in Meatable.”
Fact Check
Is Bovaer toxic to cows or humans?
No, Bovaer is not toxic to cows or humans. It’s a feed additive which helps reduce methane emissions from cows, which are a major source of greenhouse gases. Despite this proven fact, there is widespread misinformation claiming that livestock don’t produce methane, which is completely false. The active ingredient in Bovaer is 3-nitrooxypropanol, a compound that works by limiting the production of methane in the stomachs of ruminants like cows and sheep.
Scientific research has shown that Bovaer is safe for both animals and humans when used properly. It has been thoroughly evaluated and approved by regulatory bodies like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The use of Bovaer is a key step in reducing methane emissions from livestock, which helps combat climate change without affecting food production.
While Bovaer is part of the solution, it’s important to remember that climate change is a real and pressing issue. Some may argue otherwise, but building new coal plants, for instance, doesn’t make CO2 harmless.
Does Bovaer reduce cattle fertility?
No, there is no evidence that Bovaer affects cattle fertility. The idea that Bovaer impacts fertility does not have any scientific proof. Studies on Bovaer’s safety have shown no effect on the reproductive health of cattle. Its main purpose is to reduce methane emissions, not to change the animals’ biology.
The active ingredient in Bovaer, 3-nitrooxypropanol, has been thoroughly tested and does not interfere with hormones, reproduction, or any other bodily functions in cows. Both farmers and environmentalists have welcomed Bovaer as an effective, sustainable way to cut methane emissions without harming the health or productivity of livestock.
Could 3-nitrooxypropanol contaminate meat and dairy?
No, Bovaer does not contaminate meat or dairy products. Research shows that the active ingredient in Bovaer, 3-nitrooxypropanol, completely breaks down in the cow’s digestive system, leaving no traces in milk or meat. Regulatory agencies thoroughly test any additives used in animal feed to ensure they do not pose a risk to human food safety. Bovaer has passed these rigorous tests, and there are no contamination concerns.
To add more, potential side effects, such as skin irritation or breathing issues, may occur during the production or handling of concentrated forms of the additive. But, strict safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE), effectively manage these risks. For consumers, these risks are not relevant, as the additive does not remain in animal products.
Is DSM invested in lab-grown meat to eliminate traditional cattle farming?
Yes, DSM has invested in lab-grown meat, but this doesn’t mean there’s a conspiracy against cattle farming. DSM is a stakeholder in Meatable, a company developing lab-grown meat, but this investment is part of their larger sustainability efforts. They’re looking to diversify food production methods and tackle environmental issues. Supporting lab-grown meat doesn’t mean they’re trying to replace traditional farming. In fact, DSM works closely with farmers to improve the sustainability of livestock farming, as shown by their work with Bovaer.
Why is methane reduction important for cattle farming?
Reducing methane emissions is key to tackling climate change without threatening food security. Methane, mostly released by animals like cows, is one of the strongest greenhouse gases. Livestock farming makes up about 14% of global greenhouse gas emissions. By cutting down on methane, products like Bovaer help the agriculture industry meet sustainability targets while still keeping livestock production high.
This means farmers can continue raising cattle without being seen as major contributors to climate change. Far from harming cattle farming, Bovaer helps make it more environmentally friendly and sustainable for the future. Still, some people spread misinformation suggesting that Bovaer harms both health and the environment.
THIP Media Take
The claim that DSM’s Boaver poisons cows and humans to promote fake meat is false. Bovaer has been shown to be safe for both animals and humans and is designed to reduce methane emissions from livestock—a crucial step towards more sustainable farming. There is no scientific evidence to support the claims about contamination or fertility problems. This story seems more like a conspiracy theory than a legitimate concern.
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