abc.net.au/news/concerns-regarding-asparagopsis-seaweed-health-risk-livestock/102524810Safety concerns have been raised about the native seaweed asparagopsis, which is now being commercialised to help farmers reduce methane emissions in sheep and cattle.
Dr Winberg said asparagapsis was safe to handle in small amounts, but it was highly volatile and, in the volumes needed to mitigate methane, could be a safety risk. However, one of the companies licensed to grow asparagopsis said this claim was based on extreme toxicity levels. Sea Forest is expanding its operations in Tasmania but already has the capacity to grow enough seaweed to mitigate methane in 2 million head of cattle.It is already supplying some farms with an extract delivered in canola oil that fits easily into existing feed systems in beef feedlots and dairies.
Managing director Keith Howe said the beef produced for the trial would be subject to consumer taste testing at the University of New England. Meat and Livestock Australia has given asparagopsis a green light, but it says it's just one tool in the methane mitigation toolbox.