Cannabis Residue Reduces Methane Produced by Cattle by Up to 34%, New Study Shows
Research indicates the potential of cannabis residues in methane reduction, while experts assess safety, applicability, and animal welfare impacts
Published on 11/19/2025
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A groundbreaking study, published in BMC Veterinary Research, has highlighted the potential of the residue from the plant Cannabis sativa L. — composed of leaves and stems that would typically be discarded — as a promising solution for reducing methane emissions in livestock farming. The in vitro study showed that including cannabis residue powder (CSR) in ruminant diets can reduce gas emissions by up to 34.87% after 24 hours of fermentation, without compromising food digestibility. The best result was achieved with 2% CSR.
The Blocking Action of Cannabinoids
The effectiveness of the residue lies in the action of its cannabinoids, especially CBD and THC. Through molecular modeling, scientists found that these compounds can bind to methyl-coenzyme M reductase (MCR), the crucial enzyme for methane production in the rumen. This binding is stable, suggesting that cannabinoids act as natural inhibitors of methanogenesis, directly interfering with the biochemical reaction. Additionally, supplementation altered the rumen's microbiota, reducing the population of methane-producing archaea (Methanobacteriales) and increasing the proportion of propionate, a fatty acid that redirects hydrogen, reducing its availability for $\text{CH}_{4}$ formation. The authors emphasize that the methane reduction occurred "even without impairing fermentation or nutritional parameters".
Confronting the Brazilian Reality
Despite the encouraging results, applying this discovery in Brazil faces serious barriers. Veterinarian and researcher at Embrapa, Daniela Bitencourt, explains that, although the process is "technically feasible, but currently, in Brazil, still hypothetical", the initial obstacle is legislation: "Cannabis cultivation is not allowed in Brazil on a large scale, this would be the first regulatory barrier."
Food safety is also a central point of concern. For potential approval, it would be necessary to "develop more robust studies, specifically testing cannabis with different THC levels, focusing on food safety and traceability." The researcher highlights the concern about cannabinoid residues in the food chain. Although there are indications that they "disappear after a certain period of time", Bitencourt emphasizes that "initially, we do not have many answers about the presence of cannabinoids in milk or meat." Therefore, "more robust studies are crucial... so that we can define these safety levels."
Potential Indirect Benefits for the Animal
From a physiological standpoint, methane reduction and propionate increase — an indicator of better energy utilization — bring a positive outlook. Bitencourt states that it is "physiologically plausible that a reduction in methane associated with an increase in propionate brings indirect benefits (better energy utilization)". However, she cautions that there is "still no clear demonstration of clinical benefit for the animal", warning that these effects would need to be confirmed in long-term trials.
Climate Implications and the Future of Livestock Farming
The study points to an ecological and cost-effective alternative for the livestock sector, one of the main global methane emitters, a gas with very high warming potential. Using cannabis residues, which currently have no economic value, as a "strategic tool" for global livestock farming could contribute to "sustainability goals and greenhouse gas reduction." However, the researchers emphasize that the next steps depend on in vivo trials to validate efficiency, safety, and dosage in real herds.
