FutureFeed is pioneering a sustainable solution to reduce methane emissions in livestock farming through the use of Asparagopsis, a red seaweed native to Australian waters. This innovative feed additive significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions while enhancing livestock productivity.
Globally, 1.3 billion people depend on livestock for their livelihoods, highlighting the urgent need to boost productivity while mitigating environmental impacts. Livestock farming accounts for approximately 32% of human-caused methane emissions, primarily from manure and enteric fermentation. Reducing these emissions is critical for achieving food security and climate goals.
After decades of research, scientists at Australia’s CSIRO discovered that Asparagopsis produces a natural compound, bromoform, which inhibits the enzyme responsible for methane production during digestion. Feeding cattle Asparagopsis at just 1% of their daily intake can drastically cut methane emissions and potentially improve weight gain and feed efficiency.
To commercialise this breakthrough, CSIRO established FutureFeed Pty Ltd in 2020. The company holds the global intellectual property rights for using Asparagopsis in livestock feed and is developing additional patent-pending formulations. FutureFeed aims to build a full supply chain—from seaweed cultivation to feed manufacturing—and has licensed partners across Australia, New Zealand, Asia, North America, and Europe. Commercial sales began in 2022.
With several licensees successfully scaling production, FutureFeed is now advancing to the next stage of commercialisation. It focuses on fostering industry collaboration, building strategic partnerships, and promoting the adoption of Asparagopsis to reduce methane emissions and enhance livestock productivity.
FutureFeed’s work has earned global recognition, including the 2020 Food Planet Prize, the Financial Review Sustainability Leaders Award (Agriculture and Environment category), BloombergNEF Pioneers, and inclusion in the 2024 Indo-Pacific Climate Tech Top 100.
