Is Cadbury Using Bovaer To Reduce Methane Emissions? ‘Boycott Cadbury’ Trend Explained

The #BoycottCadbury trend has resurfaced on social media, reigniting debates about the chocolate maker’s environmental practices. Social media users have accused Cadbury of controversial measures to curb methane emissions, including claims about using the feed additive Bovaer to reduce cow burps. However, these claims are unfounded.

Social Media Storm Over Methane Reduction Efforts

Cadbury’s long-standing dedication to reducing its carbon impact is the source of the debate. According to a 2009 Guardian report, the Mondelez International-owned company has been addressing methane emissions since 2009 by collaborating with its dairy suppliers. The goal of this project is to reduce eructations, a major source of greenhouse emissions, by changing the diets of cows. The primary source of methane, a powerful contributor to global warming, is not cow excrement but rather the digestive operations of cows.

Despite the publicity, Cadbury is NOT taking part in the testing of the methane-reducing feed additive Bovaer.

The largest dairy cooperative in the UK, Arla Foods, is in-fact collaborating with British merchants to carry out these studies. Recent sources have shown that Cadbury has NO affiliation with Arla’s trial attempts. The retailers involved are Morrisons and Aldi, and Tesco.

Curbing Emissions Through Sustainable Practices

Working closely with its 65 dairy farmers in Wiltshire, England, is a key component of Cadbury’s strategy, the Guardian article stated. The business encouraged dietary changes to lower methane output by introducing low-carbon agricultural requirements to its suppliers. Since 60% of the carbon footprint of Cadbury’s chocolate comes from the manufacturing of milk, these initiatives are essential.

The Carbon Trust’s research, which examined Cadbury’s supply chain, emphasizes how dairy production affects the environment, The Guardian reported. Methane is responsible for more than half of the 900 grams of CO2 produced during the production of one liter of milk. A single cow typically produces 80–120 kg of methane per year, which is equivalent to the emissions of a family automobile.

Scientific Backing for Methane Reduction

The Guardian claimed in 2009 that Cadbury’s environmental initiatives are supported by scientific studies. In order to ensure compatibility with climate goals, the corporation works with experts to develop its strategy. Reducing the environmental effect of the supply chain is a top concern, according to Ian Walsh, global head of environment at Cadbury.

These initiatives are supported by the larger scientific community. Dietary modifications to reduce methane emissions have been investigated at Aberystwyth’s Institute of Grassland and Environmental Research. Similar research conducted in New Zealand showed that some food changes might reduce sheep methane emissions by as much as 50%.