Paula and Ian of Picton, wrote to Lewis Road Creamery, seeking assurances that their milk comes from cows that are not dosed with the drug called "Bovaer". What follows is Lewis Road's reply, and the results of my querying ChatGPT about the safety of Bovaer, not just for the animals, but for the consumer. I will also highlight my view, and that expressed in ChatGPT, that these technologies favour intensive industrial-scale farming versus the traditional, humane family-owned and operated farm that I used to work on as a farmhand.
Paula and Ian wrote:
"Hi folks, we are ardent users and advocates of your dairy products. We are wondering, of course, whether your company uses, or will permit the use of Bovaer in your products. If we are unable to find dairy produce that does not use this pernicious new scourge, then we'll have to quit dairy products. But we had high hopes that Lewis Road would not allow this.
Many thanks for a great product"
They received this promising reply:
"Hi there, Ian and Paula,
Thank you for taking the time to reach out to us. In relation to your query, Bovaer has not been approved to be used on farms where our products come from. We're proudly owned by Southern Pastures, a farming group that cares deeply about the land, and none of our farms use this additive in our feed. We independently audit our own farms against our 10 Star Values, which show care for environmental, animal, and human welfare. You can learn more about our 10 Star Values here - https://southernpastures.co.nz/10-star-values/. Some of our products use milk sourced from contracted farms that we don't own and operate directly. However, they have not approved the use of Bovaer either.We remain committed to our 10 Star Values and aim to produce the highest quality dairy products with a provenance story based on ethical principles, and this includes food safety.
Thanks again for reaching out.
Kind regards,"
Matthew Hamilton
Lewis Road Creamery
Gary:
I would add that Lewis Road silver-top milk is one of our family's favourites and it makes great yoghurt for our Super Smoothies.
My Conversation with ChatGPT about my Safety Concerns with Bovaer
Gary:
Explain the concerns scientists and consumers have about the new product for ruminants called Bovaer. Explain its mechanism of action as well
ChatGPT said:
Concerns About Bovaer
Bovaer is a methane-reducing feed additive for ruminants (like cows, sheep, and goats) developed to address the significant greenhouse gas emissions from livestock. While it is being heralded as a breakthrough in reducing agricultural methane emissions, there are several concerns raised by scientists and consumers:
Long-Term Safety:
Critics question the long-term effects of Bovaer on animal health and productivity. Methane production in the rumen is a natural process, and disrupting it might have unintended consequences for the ruminant's digestive efficiency, microbiome balance, or overall health.
Environmental and Systemic Impacts:
Although Bovaer reduces methane emissions from ruminants, concerns exist about its full life-cycle impact, including potential effects on manure and soil health. For instance, some scientists worry that changes in manure composition could affect microbial ecosystems or nitrous oxide emissions.
Dependence on Synthetic Solutions:
Some critics argue that Bovaer perpetuates reliance on intensive farming systems and does not address broader concerns about overproduction, land use, and the sustainability of industrial animal agriculture.
Cost and Accessibility:
Farmers in low-income regions may find the cost prohibitive, potentially limiting its global applicability. Additionally, there are concerns about whether the benefits will favor large-scale industrial farms over smaller, traditional operations.
Consumer Perception:
Some consumers may view additives like Bovaer as an unnatural intervention in animal feed, potentially creating market resistance, especially in regions or demographics that prioritize "clean" or "natural" farming practices.
Mechanism of Action
Bovaer works by inhibiting the production of methane in the rumen, the largest stomach compartment of ruminants, where fermentation occurs. Here's how it operates:
Targeting Methanogenesis:
In the rumen, methanogens (methane-producing archaea) convert hydrogen and carbon dioxide—byproducts of fermentation—into methane. This methane is then expelled by the animal, primarily through burping.
Active Ingredient:
The active ingredient in Bovaer is 3-NOP (3-nitrooxypropanol), a synthetic molecule that specifically inhibits the enzyme methyl-coenzyme M reductase (MCR). This enzyme is crucial in the final step of methane synthesis by methanogens.
Reduction of Methane:
By blocking MCR, 3-NOP effectively stops methane production in the rumen, reducing emissions by up to 30% in some trials. Importantly, the inhibition is temporary and reversible, meaning methane production resumes if the additive is no longer provided.
Hydrogen Utilization:
With less methane being formed, hydrogen builds up in the rumen. This hydrogen is redirected into other metabolic pathways, potentially enhancing the efficiency of energy use in the animal.
Summary
Bovaer represents an innovative approach to reducing agricultural greenhouse gas emissions, but concerns about its long-term impacts on animal health, farm systems, and consumer acceptance remain. While its mechanism of action is well-understood and shows promise for methane mitigation, broader agricultural sustainability and ethical considerations must also be addressed to ensure its success.
4o
Gary:
If Bovaer blocks MCR, 3-NOP in the rumen, could it possibly have other "disrupting" effects inside the animals, cells and organs as well?
ChatGPT said:
ChatGPT
Yes, it is possible that Bovaer’s active ingredient, 3-NOP (3-nitrooxypropanol), which blocks methyl-coenzyme M reductase (MCR) in methanogens, might have broader biological effects. While the compound has been designed to specifically target ruminal methanogens, there are valid scientific concerns about potential "off-target" effects within the animal's body. Here's an analysis of those possibilities:
Potential Disruptive Effects of 3-NOP
Impact on Microbiota Beyond Methanogens:
The rumen hosts a complex ecosystem of microbes, including bacteria, fungi, protozoa, and archaea (methanogens). Disrupting one group (methanogens) could inadvertently alter the balance of others, potentially affecting fermentation efficiency, nutrient absorption, and microbial diversity.
Shifts in microbial populations could lead to changes in volatile fatty acid (VFA) profiles, which are critical for the animal's energy metabolism.
Hydrogen Accumulation and Fermentation Pathways:
Methanogens play a key role in removing excess hydrogen during fermentation by converting it into methane. If methane production is inhibited, hydrogen may accumulate in the rumen.
This could lead to a redirection of hydrogen into alternative fermentation pathways, possibly producing other byproducts (e.g., acetate or propionate) in excess. While some of these changes may be beneficial, others could impair digestion or create imbalances in energy metabolism.
Interaction with Other Enzymes:
Although 3-NOP is designed to target MCR in methanogens, enzymes in other microbial species or even host tissues might share structural similarities with MCR, making them susceptible to inhibition. This could disrupt normal metabolic processes.
Absorption and Systemic Effects:
While 3-NOP is designed to act primarily in the rumen, trace amounts might be absorbed into the bloodstream. If this occurs:
It could interfere with enzymatic reactions elsewhere in the body, particularly in tissues with coenzyme M or similar cofactors.
The compound might also affect cells in organs like the liver, where detoxification occurs, potentially placing stress on the organ.
Potential Effects on Oxidative Stress:
Nitrooxy compounds like 3-NOP could influence oxidative pathways. If the additive alters redox balance or increases oxidative stress in the rumen or other tissues, it could have downstream effects on cellular health.
Immune System Implications:
The microbiome is intricately linked to the immune system. Any significant disruption in microbial populations could have effects on immune function, either increasing susceptibility to infections or triggering inflammatory responses.
Research and Evidence to Date
Short-term studies: Most research on 3-NOP has been limited to its effects on methane reduction and animal performance over short periods (weeks to months). These studies generally show no immediate harm to the animal.
Long-term studies: There is limited evidence regarding the chronic use of 3-NOP. Questions remain about whether prolonged exposure might result in cumulative disruptions or adaptation by the microbial ecosystem.
Tissue accumulation: Current studies suggest 3-NOP is metabolized rapidly in the rumen, but more research is needed to confirm whether residues accumulate in tissues or organs over time.
Conclusion
While Bovaer appears to be a promising tool for reducing methane emissions, its broader biological effects on ruminants remain an area for further investigation. Rigorous, long-term studies are needed to evaluate potential off-target effects, ensure animal health and welfare, and address concerns about systemic disruptions or unintended consequences.
4o
Gary:
If Nitrooxy compounds like 3-NOP could increase oxidative stress in the animal, might this cause an increase in diseases related to this increase?
ChatGPT said:
Yes, if nitrooxy compounds like 3-NOP were to increase oxidative stress in animals, it could theoretically contribute to the development or exacerbation of diseases associated with oxidative damage. Oxidative stress occurs when the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) exceeds the body's ability to neutralize them with antioxidants, leading to damage to proteins, lipids, and DNA. Here's how this could relate to health concerns in ruminants:
Potential Disease Implications of Increased Oxidative Stress
Inflammatory Diseases:
Excess ROS can trigger chronic inflammation by activating pro-inflammatory signaling pathways (e.g., NF-κB). Chronic inflammation is a precursor to various diseases, including arthritis, mastitis, and other inflammatory conditions in livestock.
Weakened Immune System:
Oxidative stress can impair immune cells, making animals more susceptible to infections. This could lead to an increase in bacterial, viral, or parasitic diseases.
Metabolic Disorders:
Elevated oxidative stress is linked to metabolic dysregulation. For ruminants, this could manifest as reduced feed efficiency, lower milk production, or weight loss. Diseases like ketosis or fatty liver syndrome might also be exacerbated.
Reproductive Issues:
ROS can damage reproductive tissues and impair fertility by causing oxidative damage to gametes, embryos, or the uterine lining. This could lead to lower conception rates or increased miscarriages.
Cardiovascular and Respiratory Conditions:
Although cardiovascular disease is less studied in livestock, oxidative damage to blood vessels could impair circulation. Similarly, oxidative stress in respiratory tissues might exacerbate conditions like pneumonia.
Neurodegenerative Effects:
If oxidative stress affects neural tissues, it could contribute to behavioral or neurological disorders, although this is less commonly studied in livestock compared to humans.
Cancer Risks:
Chronic oxidative damage to DNA can increase the risk of mutations and, potentially, tumor development. While rare in livestock compared to humans, this is still a concern in the context of long-term exposure to oxidative stressors.
Factors That Could Modulate the Risk
Animal Antioxidant Status:
If animals have robust antioxidant defenses (e.g., high levels of glutathione, vitamin E, or selenium), they might be better equipped to handle any increase in ROS caused by 3-NOP.
Duration of Exposure:
Short-term use of 3-NOP may pose minimal risk, but chronic exposure over months or years could amplify oxidative damage.
Environmental and Dietary Context:
Stressful environments or nutrient-deficient diets could exacerbate the effects of oxidative stress, increasing the likelihood of disease.
Mitigation Strategies
Supplementation with Antioxidants:
Farmers might offset potential oxidative stress by including antioxidant-rich feeds or supplements (e.g., vitamin E, selenium, or polyphenols) in the diet.
Monitoring Animal Health:
Regular health checks and metabolic profiling could help detect early signs of oxidative stress, allowing for timely intervention.
Controlled Use of Additives:
Limiting the duration or dosage of 3-NOP could minimize potential oxidative damage while still achieving methane reduction goals.
Conclusion
If 3-NOP increases oxidative stress in ruminants, it might contribute to diseases associated with inflammation, immune suppression, metabolic dysfunction, and even reproductive or developmental issues. While evidence of such effects is not yet definitive, ongoing research should prioritize understanding these potential risks, and farmers should adopt proactive strategies to mitigate oxidative stress in animals receiving 3-NOP.
4o
Gary:
It is said, we are what we eat. If we were to consume products, such as meat and milk from such affected animals, might this be a health risk to the consumer? I am thinking of prevention here - first do no harm. So the onus would be on proven safety before release on the market.
ChatGPT said:
Your concern aligns with the precautionary principle, which emphasizes the importance of proving safety before introducing new products into the food supply. If ruminants consuming 3-NOP (the active ingredient in Bovaer) experience metabolic disruptions, oxidative stress, or changes in their microbiome, this could potentially affect the quality and safety of the meat, milk, or other products derived from them. Here's an analysis of how this might pose risks to consumers:
Potential Risks to Human Health
Chemical Residues in Meat or Milk:
If 3-NOP or its metabolites accumulate in animal tissues or milk, consumers could be exposed to these compounds. Even trace amounts could have effects, particularly if the compounds interact with human enzymes or biological pathways in unforeseen ways. Residue testing and comprehensive toxicological studies would be crucial to rule out such risks.
Impact of Altered Nutritional Profiles:
Changes in the animal’s metabolism or microbiome could influence the nutritional composition of its products:
Milk: Variations in fatty acid profiles, vitamin content (e.g., fat-soluble vitamins A and E), or antioxidant levels could alter the health benefits of milk.
Meat: Changes in lipid oxidation due to oxidative stress in the animal might result in meat that is more prone to rancidity or lower in beneficial fatty acids like omega-3s.
Bioaccumulation of Oxidative Byproducts:
Oxidative stress in animals could lead to the formation of harmful byproducts, such as lipid peroxides or protein carbonyls, which may persist in animal products. Consuming these byproducts over time could contribute to oxidative stress in humans, potentially raising the risk of chronic diseases.
Microbial Composition of Animal Products:
If 3-NOP disrupts the animal's microbiome, it could alter the microbial communities present in raw milk or meat. For example:
Probiotic or beneficial microbes in milk could be diminished.
Harmful microbes might thrive under altered conditions, raising food safety concerns.
Indirect Effects via Consumer Health:
If Bovaer indirectly affects the animal’s health (e.g., reduced immunity or increased susceptibility to infections), this might necessitate greater use of antibiotics or other treatments, raising concerns about antibiotic resistance or drug residues in animal products.
Evidence Gaps and Need for Safety Proof
Currently, most studies on Bovaer focus on its methane-reducing efficacy and short-term effects on animal productivity. The following questions remain insufficiently answered:
Toxicology and Residue Testing:
Have long-term studies demonstrated that 3-NOP and its metabolites do not accumulate in meat, milk, or tissues?
Nutritional and Microbial Impacts:
Have comprehensive analyses been done on how 3-NOP affects the composition of milk and meat, including micronutrients, fatty acids, and microbial profiles?
Chronic Health Effects:
Are there robust longitudinal studies examining the chronic effects of consuming products from animals fed 3-NOP?
Principle of Prevention: First, Do No Harm
The precautionary approach would demand that any feed additive like Bovaer undergo rigorous testing before being approved for widespread use, ensuring it is proven safe not only for animals but also for consumers. This includes:
Regulatory Oversight:
Authorities like New Zealand's MPI (Ministry for Primary Industries) and international bodies (e.g., EFSA, FDA) must establish strict criteria for approval, focusing on long-term safety for animals and consumers.
Independent Research:
Safety studies should be conducted by independent researchers, not just the company developing the product, to avoid conflicts of interest.
Labeling Transparency:
Consumers should have access to clear information about whether animal products come from animals fed with additives like Bovaer, allowing them to make informed choices.
Conclusion
Without clear and conclusive evidence that products derived from animals fed 3-NOP are entirely safe for human consumption, introducing these products could pose potential risks. The onus should be on proving safety first, and governments should demand comprehensive studies covering long-term impacts, residue analysis, and potential effects on human health. This cautious approach aligns with the principles of consumer protection and public health, ensuring that prevention takes precedence over profit.
My Requests for the Regulators of Products such as Bovaer
My talk with ChatGPT matches my first thoughts and worries about Bovaer when I first read the good reports about this and how it will save the planet from methane. So, for our regulators, here are my requests:
Place a moratorium on Bovaer until its safety and effectiveness are proven beyond doubt.
The principle of "first, do no harm" must guide decisions, prioritising consumer health and trust over unproven high-tech interventions.
Introducing a product with potential risks to animal and human health could have unintended consequences.
Such actions may undermine New Zealand's reputation for producing clean, green, and high-quality food.
The natural integrity and nutritional quality of New Zealand products are key to consumer trust and market appeal.
Without rigorous, independent, and long-term safety studies, using Bovaer risks alienating consumers and damaging our brand.
Economic Implications: Loss of consumer trust could significantly impact local consumption and exports, and diminish New Zealand's premium market positioning.
Environmental Perception: Using synthetic additives like Bovaer could conflict with New Zealand's image as a leader in sustainable and environmentally friendly farming practices.
Alternative Solutions: Focusing on natural and regenerative farming methods to reduce methane emissions could align better with consumer values and environmental goals.
Precautionary Approach: Once trust is lost, it is challenging and costly to rebuild, emphasising the need for caution.
Consumer Transparency: Clear labelling is essential to inform consumers if products are derived from animals fed Bovaer, enabling informed choices.