Effects of Liriope platyphylla and organic acids in hanwoo feed on greenhouse gas reduction

Liriope platyphylla and organic acids (humic and fulvic acids) as additives in the feedstock may aid in decreasing CH₄ formation in the rumen. Based on previous studies, Hanwoo steers were raised with feedstock added with Liriope platyphylla and organic acids and their fecal samples were analyzed to determine the changes in their organic matter and nitrogen content determining the GHG emissions from feces in the form of CH₄ and N₂O.

Ten Hanwoo cattle were provided with experimental diet and their weights were measured to determine harmful effects of experimental diet and measure fecal composition. To measure CH₄ emission from the rumen in vitro, rumen fluid with Liriope platyphylla 1.0% and organic acids 0.05% added to the feed was prepared and incubated in triplicate.

The addition of Liriope platyphylla had a positive effect on immune function and blood composition, as well as CH₄ reduction and further the addition of organic acids resulted in the lowering of CH₄ emissions when compared with that of the control. The addition of Liriope platyphylla and organic acids is a potential additive of reducing CH₄ emissions from ruminants without disrupting cattle growth.