Red algae feed product and method for processing red algae

Abstract

According to one embodiment, the feed product comprises about 10% to about 95% by weight red algae material, about 6% to about 40% by weight total oil, and up to about 10% by weight water, based on the total weight of the feed product. Further embodiments include methods of making and using the feed products disclosed herein.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 411,342 (Attorney Docket No. CBH0004MA), filed September 29, 2022, and entitled "SEAWEEED FEED PRODUCTS and METHODS FOR PROCESSING SEAWEED," which further claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 486,615 (Attorney Docket No. CBH0004MA1), filed February 23, 2023, and entitled "SEAWEEED FEED PRODUCTS and METHODS FOR PROCESSING SEAWEED," which further claims priority to U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 530,759 (Attorney Docket No. CBH0006MA), filed August 4, 2023, and entitled "RED SEAWEED FEED PRODUCTS AND METHODS FOR PROCESSING RED SEAWEED," each of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] This specification relates generally to feed products containing red algae material, and more particularly to feed products suitable for ruminants. [Background technology]

[0003] Due to up to 1.5 billion domestic cattle worldwide, significant greenhouse gas ("GHG") contributions come from cattle, sheep, and other ruminant production systems, which as a whole are responsible for up to 20% of global GHG emissions, primarily through the emission of methane. Such methane emissions are a by-product of the fermentation of feed organic matter in the rumen, the stomach of a ruminant's unique digestive system. Therefore, there is an urgent need for methods and products that can reduce ruminant methane emissions. Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] According to one embodiment, the feed product may comprise between about 10% and about 95% by weight red algae material and between about 6% and about 40% by weight total oil, and the feed product comprises less than or equal to about 10% by weight water based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0005] According to one embodiment, a method of making a feed product may include drying red algae to form a seaweed material, processing the seaweed material into particles, and mixing the particles with about 1% to about 35% by weight of at least one additive oil, based on the total weight of the feed product, thereby creating the feed product. The feed product may contain up to about 10% by weight water, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a method of feeding a ruminant animal may comprise administering to the ruminant animal an amount of a feed product effective to reduce methane emissions in the ruminant animal. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0007] It is to be understood that both the foregoing general description and the following detailed description are intended to provide an overview or framework for describing various embodiments and for understanding the nature and character of the claimed subject matter. Detailed Description

[0008] Reference is now made in detail to embodiments of the feed product and methods of processing and use described herein. According to one or more embodiments, the feed product comprises red algae material and oil. As described in detail herein, it has been discovered that administering seaweed material containing one or more halogenated compounds, such as bromoform, to ruminants reduces methane production in the ruminants. However, administering seaweed material to ruminants can be difficult due to issues related to mixing the seaweed with ruminant feed, palatability, inhalation hazards, ruminant feed selection, stability of the seaweed and the halogenated compounds contained therein, stability of the feed product, or cost. The embodiments described herein fulfill these needs by providing a feed product containing specific concentrations of red algae material, oil, and water. Further embodiments described herein relate to methods of making and administering the feed product.

[0009] As described herein, embodiments are directed to feed products containing red algae material. A feed product, as described herein, refers to any material eaten (e.g., consumed and / or digested) by an animal, such as a ruminant, including seaweed material or processed materials derived from seaweed material. The feed products described herein, according to various embodiments, may be consumed individually by an animal (e.g., the feed is consumed primarily without other feed ingredients) or may be consumed with other feeds (e.g., the feed is consumed in a mixture with other feed ingredients or "top dressed" on top of other feeds, such as forage). In some embodiments, the feed products described herein may constitute a relatively small portion of an animal's overall diet and may be considered a supplement to another bulk feed. For example, the feeds described herein may be eaten by an animal with other feeds, such as forage (e.g., including grass or legume (e.g., alfalfa) feeds), silage, corn, soybeans, other seeds, oils, nutritional supplements, etc. For example, in some embodiments, the feed products described herein can be mixed with other feeds, such as corn and / or soybeans. In other examples, animals may occasionally nibble or otherwise be fed any of the various forages and may be separately fed some amount of the feed products described herein. It is contemplated that the feed products described herein can be part of a feeding regimen that can vary by breed and type of ruminant, e.g., dairy cattle, beef feedlot cattle, "high-end" cattle (e.g., Wagyu or other premium cattle types), free-range cattle, etc., or by feeding approach (e.g., feedlot or grazing system, or a combination thereof). Each type of ruminant may have a specialized diet that includes the feed products along with other additives.

[0010] According to various embodiments, the feed products described herein can be consumed and / or digested by ruminants. As described herein and understood by those skilled in the art, "ruminants" can refer to herbivorous, ungulate mammals (suborders Ruminantia and Nucellopoda) with a complex three- or four-chambered stomach. Ruminants include, but are not limited to, cattle, sheep, deer, goats, giraffes, camels, and llamas. The ruminants described herein can be domesticated, such as ruminants used for direct human food consumption, dairy production, and / or recreation. In certain embodiments, the ruminant is a bovine. In some embodiments, the ruminant can be a dairy cow, a beef cattle, a "high-end" cattle such as a Waygu, a free-range cattle, or the like, or can vary by feeding approach (e.g., feedlot or grazing system, or a combination thereof). In one embodiment, the ruminant is a bovine. In another embodiment, the ruminant is a dairy cow. In another embodiment, the ruminant is a free-range cow. In a particular embodiment, the ruminant is a sheep.

[0011] In embodiments described herein, the feed product comprises red algae material containing one or more halogenated compounds (naturally present in the harvested seaweed). As used herein, "red algae" refers to the family of seaweed known as Bonnemaisoniaceae, including its genera, species, and variants (natural or synthetic). The Bonnemaisoniaceae family includes the genera Asparagopsis, Bonnemaisonia, Delicia, Ptilonia, Leptophilis, and Pleuroblepharidella. In one embodiment described herein, the seaweed material is a single genus or species of Bonnemaisoniaceae; in another embodiment, it is a combination or two or more genera or species. In one embodiment herein, the seaweed material is Asparagopsis material. In one embodiment herein, the seaweed material is Asparagopsis taxiformis material. In another embodiment herein, the seaweed material is Asparagopsis armata material. In another embodiment herein, the seaweed material is a combination of Asparagopsis taxiformis mataerial and Asparagopsis armata mataerial. In any of the embodiments herein, the seaweed material is a processed material derived from seaweeds of the family Cardamomaceae, such as a processed material derived from the genus Asparagopsis. In one embodiment herein, the seaweed material is dried, and such drying can be achieved by methods described herein or according to methods known to those skilled in the art. As used herein, "dry" with respect to seaweed material means that the seaweed material is in a sufficiently dry state such that a feed product including the seaweed material contains about 10% or less water, based on the total weight of the feed product. Any red algae material, including any material processed therefrom, may be referred to herein simply as seaweed material.

[0012] As described herein, "halogen compound" refers to any compound containing a halogen (e.g., fluorine, chlorine, bromine, iodine). As described herein, these halogen compounds are generally present in the glands of some seaweed. Throughout this disclosure, references to "halogen compound" or "halogen compounds" can refer to one or more halogen compounds present in seaweed, e.g., specialized seaweed glands, at the time of harvest or after harvest and processing. It is contemplated herein that feed products may include added halogen compounds (compounds included in the feed product in addition to those already present in the seaweed material). In some embodiments, the halogen compound is organic, which generally means that the halogen is attached to the carbon molecular backbone, as understood by those skilled in the art. In certain embodiments, the halogen compound comprises a halogen selected from the group consisting of fluorine, chlorine, bromine, and iodine.

[0013] A non-exhaustive list of possible organohalogen compounds is: bromoform, dibromo(iodo)methane, bromo(diiodo)methane, iodoform, dibromo(chloro)methane, bromo-chloro-iodomethane, dibromomethane, bromo(iodo)methane, diiodomethane, tetrabromomethane, acetyl iodide, 2-iodoethanol, 1-bromo-2-iodoethane, 2,2-dibromoacetaldehyde, 1-bromopropan-2-one, 1-iodopropan-2-one, 1,1-dibromopropan-2-one, 1-bromobutan-2-one, 1- ... 1,1,1-tribromopropan-2-one, 1,1-dibromo-1-chloropropan-2-one, 1,3-dibromobutan-2-one, 1,1-dibromo-3-iodopropan-2-one, 1,1,3,3-tetrabromopropan-2-one, 1,1,1,3,3,3-hexachloropropan-2-one, 1,1,3-tribromopropan-2-ol, 1,1,3,3-tetrabromoprop-1-ene, 1,1,3-tribromo-3-chloroprop-1-ene, 1,1-dibromo-3,3-dichloroprop-1- ene, 1,3,3-tribromo-1-iodoprop-1-ene, 3,3-dibromoprop-2-enal, 4,4-dibromobut-3-en-2-one, 1,4,4-tribromobut-3-en-2-one, 1-iodo-4,4-dibromobut-3-en-2-one, 1,1,4,4-tetrabromobut-3-en-2-one, 1,4,4-tribromo-1-chlorobut-3-en-2-one, 1,1,4-tribromo-4-chlorobut-3-en-2-one, 1,1-dibromo-4,4-dichlorobut-3-en-2-one, 1,4-dibromo-1, 4-Dichlorobut-3-en-2-one, 2-chloroacetic acid, 2-bromoacetic acid, 2-iodoacetic acid, 2,2-dichloroacetic acid, 2-bromo-2-chloroacetic acid, 2-iodo-2-chloroacetic acid, 2,2-dibromoacetic acid, 2-iodo-2-bromoacetic acid, 2,2-diiodoacetic acid, 3-chloroprop-2-enoic acid, 2-chloroprop-2-enoic acid, 3-bromoprop-2-enoic acid, 3-iodoprop-2-enoic acid, 3-iodoprop-2-enoic acid, 3,3-dichloroprop-2-enoic acid, 2,3-dichloroprop-2-enoic acid, 3,3-dibromoprop-2-enoic acid, 2,These include 3-dibromoprop-2-enoic acid, 3-iodo-3-dibromoprop-2-enoic acid, 2-iodo-3-bromoprop-2-enoic acid, 2-bromo-3-iodoprop-2-enoic acid, 3,3-diiodoprop-2-enoic acid, 2,3-diiodoprop-2-enoic acid, 2,3,3-tribromoprop-2-enoic acid, 2,3-dibromo,3-iodoprop-2-enoic acid, 2-iodo-3,3-dibromoprop-2-enoic acid, bibromochloromethane, and bromochloromethane. At least bromoform, bibromochloromethane, and bromochloromethane are known to be constituents of several seaweed species, such as Asparagopsis taxiformis and Asparagopsis armata.

[0014] In one embodiment, the halogen compound comprises bromine. Of particular interest in this embodiment, but not limited to, is bromoform, which has been demonstrated to reduce methane emissions in ruminants. However, without being bound by any theory, it is believed that other halogen compounds other than bromoform may also have an effect on reducing methane emissions in ruminants, and therefore administration of these other compounds may also be beneficial.

[0015] The feed product includes one or more oils. Some of the oils may be native to the seaweed material (i.e., present in the seaweed after harvesting and drying procedures and before the addition of additional oils), and some of the oils may be mixed or combined with the seaweed material to form the feed product. Such mixed or otherwise combined oils are referred to herein as "added oils." As used herein, the native oils and any added oils constitute the total oil in the feed product. In embodiments, the feed product comprises from about 6% to about 40% by weight (e.g., from about 7% to about 40% by weight, from about 8% to about 40% by weight, from about 10% to about 40% by weight, from about 12% to about 40% by weight, from about 15% to about 40% by weight, from about 20% to about 40% by weight, from about 25% to about 40% by weight, from about 6% to about 35% by weight, from about 7% to about 35% by weight, from about 8% to about 35 ...15% to about 40% by weight, from about 20% to about 40% by weight, from about 15% to about 40% by weight, from about 15% to about 40% by weight, from about 15% to about 40% by weight, from about 15% to about 40% by weight, from about 15% to about 40% by weight, from about 15% to about 40% by weight, from about 15% to about 40% by weight, from about 15% to about 40% by weight, from about 15% to about 40% by The feed product may comprise between 0% and about 35% by weight, between about 12% and about 35% by weight, between about 15% and about 35% by weight, between about 20% and about 35% by weight, between about 6% and about 30% by weight, between about 7% and about 30% by weight, between about 8% and about 30% by weight, between about 10% and about 30% by weight, between about 12% and about 30% by weight, between about 15% and about 30% by weight, between about 20% and about 30% by weight, or any subset thereof. In one embodiment, the feed product comprises between about 22% and about 40% by weight, or between about 25% and about 40% by weight, based on the total weight of the feed product. In one embodiment, the feed product comprises between about 22% and about 35% by weight, or between about 25% and about 35% by weight, based on the total weight of the feed product. The amount of total oil is measured according to the method described in "Analysis of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters with High Accuracy and Reliability. IV Fats with Fatty Acids Containing Four or More Carbon Atoms," JAOCS, Vol. 62, No. 10 (Oct. 1985). It will be understood that those skilled in the art may make minor modifications to this method, if necessary, to measure the amount of total oil in feed products.

[0016] In some embodiments, the feed product may contain up to about 5% by weight of oil native to the seaweed material (i.e., present in the seaweed after harvesting and drying procedures, prior to the addition of additional oil). The composition of the native oil may be the same or different from the added oil, and may be produced by the seaweed itself as it grows. The amount and composition of the oil may depend on the species of red algae, the conditions under which it is grown, harvested, or processed, and the concentration of seaweed in the feed product. In some embodiments, at least some of the oil native to the seaweed material contains one or more fatty acid moieties with carbon chain lengths of 14 to 24 (i.e., C14 to CH24). In some embodiments, at least some of the oils native to the seaweed material comprise one or more of the following fatty acid moieties: butyric acid, caproic acid, caprylic acid, capric acid, lauric acid, myristic acid, myristoleic acid, pentadecanoic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, margaric acid, heptadecenoic acid, stearic acid, octadecanoic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, alpha linoleic acid, gamma linoleic acid, dihomo-gamma-linoleic acid, octadecatrienoic acid, stearidonic acid, arachidonic acid, eicosenoic acid, eicosadienoic acid, eicosatrienoic acid, eicosatetraenoic acid, arachidonic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, heneicosapentaenoic acid, docosanoic acid, erucic acid, docosenoic acid, docosatetraenoic acid, docosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, tetracosanoic acid, and tetracosanoic acid. In some embodiments, at least some of the oils native to the seaweed material comprise one or more of myristic acid, palmitic acid, palmitoleic acid, oleic acid, and linoleic acid fatty acid moieties. In some embodiments, the feed product may comprise no more than 5% by weight, no more than about 4% by weight, no more than about 3% by weight, no more than about 2% by weight, no more than about 1.5% by weight, or no more than about 1% by weight of oils native to the seaweed material, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0017] The feed product may further include an additive oil. The additive oil may be compositionally different from the oil native to the seaweed, or may have the same or similar composition. As used herein, the term "oil" alone with respect to additive oil typically refers to any non-polar, hydrophobic substance that is liquid at ambient temperature and pressure. Oil may be derived from animals, plants, or petrochemicals and typically has a high carbon and hydrogen content. In certain embodiments, the additive oil is an edible oil. In certain embodiments, the additive oil is derived from one or more plants (including naturally occurring and synthetically produced). The additive oil may include an edible oil, such as a vegetable oil (e.g., derived from a plant material other than seaweed). The additive oil can significantly reduce dust, and odors may be masked, increasing safety and palatability. Furthermore, the incorporation of additive oil may reduce loss of active compounds, such as bromoform or other organohalogen compounds, during the harvesting, processing, transportation, storage, and administration of the feed product. Additive oils can include, but are not limited to, almond oil, apricot oil, argan oil, avocado oil, Brazil nut oil, cashew oil, canola oil, coconut oil, corn oil, cottonseed oil, flaxseed oil, grapefruit seed oil, grape seed oil, hazelnut oil, hemp oil, lemon oil, linseed oil, macadamia oil, mustard oil, olive oil, orange oil, palm oil, palm kernel oil, peanut oil, pecan oil, pine nut oil, pistachio oil, pumpkin seed oil, rapeseed oil, rice bran oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, vegetable oil (which can be a general reference to any of the various vegetable oils in combination, or to more specific combinations of vegetable oils such as soybean oil, corn oil, or a combination of soybean oil and corn oil), walnut oil, or other vegetable oil (including mixtures of any of the foregoing). In one embodiment, the added oil is canola oil, coconut oil, corn oil, cottonseed oil, linseed oil, grapeseed oil, olive oil, palm oil, palm kernel oil, peanut oil, rapeseed oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, or vegetable oil, including mixtures of any of the foregoing.In one embodiment, the added oil is canola oil, coconut oil, corn oil, cottonseed oil, linseed oil, olive oil, palm oil, peanut oil, rapeseed oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, or vegetable oil, including any mixture of any of the foregoing. In one embodiment, the added oil is canola oil, coconut oil, corn oil, olive oil, palm oil, peanut oil, rapeseed oil, safflower oil, soybean oil, including any mixture of the foregoing. In one embodiment, the added oil is canola oil. In some embodiments, the added oil is one or more oils, two or more oils, or three or more oils. The feed product may comprise about 1% to about 40%, about 3% to about 40%, about 5% to about 40%, about 10% to about 40%, about 15% to about 40%, about 20% to about 40%, 1% to about 30%, about 3% to about 30%, about 5% to about 30%, about 8% to about 30%, about 10% to about 30%, about 12% to about 30%, about 5% to about 20%, about 8% to about 20%, about 10% to about 20%, about 12% to about 20%, or any subset thereof, of added oil, based on the total weight of the feed product. In one embodiment, the feed product comprises about 17% to about 35% by weight, or about 20% to about 35% by weight, or about 23% to about 35% by weight, or any subset thereof, of added oil, based on the total weight of the feed product. In one embodiment, the feed product comprises about 17% to about 30% by weight, or about 20% to about 30% by weight, or about 23% to about 30% by weight, or any subset thereof, of added oil, based on the total weight of the feed product. The amount of added oil is measured according to the method described in "Analysis of Fatty Acid Methyl Esters with High Accuracy and Reliability. IV Fats with Fatty Acids Containing Four or More Carbon Atoms," JAOCS, Vol. 62, No. 10 (October 1985). It will be appreciated that one skilled in the art can make minor modifications to this method to measure the amount of added oil in a feed product, if desired.

[0018] Without being limited by theory, it is believed that relatively high total oil levels, including relatively high added oil levels, provide several unexpected benefits related to aspects such as bromoform stability and overall product efficacy. Additionally, these relatively high total oil levels may allow the feed product, whether beef or dairy, to perform more effectively and efficiently when exposed to feeding conditions such as open feed areas exposed to environmental factors or open grazing conditions, such as high winds. Thus, embodiments in which the feed product comprises from about 22% to about 40% by weight, or from about 25% to about 40% by weight, of total oil, based on the total weight of the feed product, may be particularly beneficial. Embodiments in which the feed product comprises from about 17% to about 35% by weight, or from about 22% to about 35% by weight, or from about 25% to about 35% by weight, of added oil, based on the total weight of the feed product, may also be particularly beneficial.

[0019] The feed product may contain relatively small amounts of water. In one embodiment, the feed product comprises seaweed material derived from red algae that has been harvested and dried in some manner, where the drying is according to methods described herein or otherwise known to those skilled in the art. The presence of excess water can reduce the shelf life of the feed product by allowing bacterial growth, increase the weight of the feed product and therefore shipping costs, and degrade halogenated compounds (e.g., bromoform) in the feed product. Thus, the feed product may contain about 10% by weight or less, about 8% by weight or less, about 6% by weight or less, about 4% by weight or less, about 2% by weight or less, or about 1% by weight or less of water, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0020] The feed product may have a water activity of about 0.85 or less at 25°C. Generally, water activity is a measure of how strongly water molecules are bound to the feed product. Even if water is present, if it is tightly bound to the feed product, it may not be available to support the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold. If the water activity is too high (i.e., not tightly bound), the feed product may have enough moisture to support the growth of bacteria, yeast, and mold. Thus, a feed product with a sufficiently low water activity can be storage stable and does not require refrigeration or special handling. In embodiments, the feed product may have a water activity of about 0.6 or less, about 0.4 or less, or about 0.2 or less at 25°C. Water activity is measured in accordance with ISO 18787:2017.

[0021] The feed product includes red algae material. The seaweed material may be derived from any genus of the Porphyra family that contains organohalogen compounds, such as bromoform. Such seaweed species include, but are not limited to, Asparagopsis taxiformis or Asparagus armata. However, other species of red algae may contain one or more organohalogen compounds, or seaweed genetic variants may contain one or more organohalogen compounds, all of which are contemplated as being applicable to embodiments of the present disclosure. As used herein, seaweed material also includes any ingredient or other material derived from, processed from, or obtained from seaweed material. The feed product may contain from about 10% to about 95% by weight of seaweed material, based on the total weight of the feed product. As used herein, this is based on the dry weight of the seaweed material included in the feed product, although it will be understood that such dry weight of seaweed material may necessarily contain some moisture content. As used herein, "dry weight" or "dry" with respect to seaweed material means that the seaweed material is in a sufficiently dry state such that a feed product comprising the seaweed material contains about 10% or less water, based on the total weight of the feed product. In embodiments, the feed product may contain about 10% to about 90%, about 10% to about 75%, about 10% to about 50%, about 10% to about 40%, about 20% to about 95%, about 20% to about 90%, about 20% to about 75%, about 20% to about 50%, about 20% to about 40%, about 30% to about 95%, or about 30% to about 90% by weight of the seaweed material, based on the total weight of the feed product. The feed product may comprise between about 30% and about 75% by weight, between about 30% and about 50% by weight, between about 30% and about 40% by weight, between about 40% and about 95% by weight, between about 40% and about 90% by weight, between about 40% and about 75% by weight, between about 40% and about 50% by weight, or any subset thereof. The total weight of the feed product includes the weight of any water and / or oil present in the feed product, and any other optional ingredients. In embodiments, the feed product may comprise at least about 25% or more by weight of seaweed material, or between about 25% and about 45% by weight of the feed product, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0022] To achieve the goals of low moisture content, low water activity, and processing of the seaweed material into particles, the seaweed may be dried. When collected from the ocean or otherwise harvested from ponds or tanks, the seaweed may contain as much as about 80% water by weight of the total weight of the collected or harvested seaweed material. In addition, drying the seaweed may make it easier to process the seaweed into particles. Drying the seaweed while freezing may provide additional stability benefits. Contemplated drying methods include, but are not limited to, freeze-drying, freeze-sublimation drying (similar to freeze-drying but without a pressure change), and refractive window drying (where IR energy is used to dry the product). In an embodiment, the seaweed is freeze-dried seaweed material. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that freeze-dried seaweed material may have structural characteristics that differ from as-harvested or conventionally dried seaweed material.

[0023] The seaweed material in the feed product may be present as particles. As used herein, "particle" refers to a discrete piece of seaweed material that can be separated from other discrete pieces without substantial change in size or shape. For example, particles of a given size may be able to pass through a sieve of that size without substantial change. In embodiments, based on the total weight of the particles, about 80% or more of the particles of the seaweed material may have a diameter of about 35 μm to about 420 μm before being mixed with the additive oil. In embodiments, based on the total weight of the particles, about 90% or more of the particles may have a diameter of about 35 μm or more, about 50% or more of the particles may have a particle size of about 160 μm or more, and about 90% or more of the particles may have a particle size of about 420 μm or less.

[0024] In certain embodiments, the seaweed material particles are, in part, agglomerates of seaweed material and added oil or other components of the feed product. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that cattle are adept at sorting feed and may refuse to eat food particles that lack sufficient palatability or tactile preference. This sorting problem is believed to be significantly worse as the particles become larger, such as larger than 1 cm. Furthermore, it is believed that extremely small particles, such as those having diameters less than 10 μm, may pose an inhalation hazard to animals and workers. The presence of such particles tends to require the use of expensive and time-consuming personal protective equipment (PPE). Additionally, such small particles may be prone to blowing around, such as in ruminant farming environments, due to their extremely high surface area-to-mass ratio and the effects of electrostatic charge.

[0025] In certain embodiments, the feed product may comprise particles, including agglomerates, having a particle size distribution such that at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, or at least about 99% by weight of the particles, based on the total weight of the particles (including agglomerates) in the feed product, may have a diameter of from about 10 μm to about 1 cm. In certain embodiments, the feed product may comprise particles, including agglomerates, having a particle size distribution such that at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, or at least about 99% by weight of the particles in the feed product may have diameters of about 10 μm to about 1 cm, about 50 μm to about 1 cm, about 100 μm to about 1 cm, about 250 μm to about 1 cm, about 500 μm to about 1 cm, about 1000 μm to about 1 cm, about 2500 μm to about 1 cm, about 5000 μm to about 1 cm, about 10 μm to about 8000 μm, about 10 μm to about 5000 μm, about 10 μm to about 2500 μm, about 10 μm to about 1000 μm, or any subset thereof, based on the total weight of the particles in the feed product.

[0026] In certain embodiments, the feed product may comprise particles, including agglomerates, having a particle size distribution such that at least about 60 volume percent (vol%), at least about 70 volume%, at least about 80 volume%, at least about 90 volume%, at least about 95 volume%, or at least about 99 volume% of the particles, based on the total volume of particles (including agglomerates) in the feed product, may have a diameter of from about 10 μm to about 1 cm. In certain embodiments, the feed product may comprise particles, including agglomerates, having a particle size distribution such that at least about 60%, at least about 70%, at least about 80%, at least about 90%, at least about 95%, or at least about 99% by volume of the particles, based on the total volume of particles in the feed product, may have diameters of about 10 μm to about 1 cm, about 50 μm to about 1 cm, about 100 μm to about 1 cm, about 250 μm to about 1 cm, about 500 μm to about 1 cm, about 1000 μm to about 1 cm, about 2500 μm to about 1 cm, about 5000 μm to about 1 cm, about 10 μm to about 8000 μm, about 10 μm to about 5000 μm, about 10 μm to about 2500 μm, about 10 μm to about 1000 μm, or any subset thereof.

[0027] For example, the feed product may include particles comprising agglomerates of seaweed material and added oil, wherein at least about 95% by weight of the particles, based on the total weight of the particles in the feed product, may have a diameter of about 10 μm or greater, hi embodiments, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or at least about 99.9% by weight of the particles, based on the total weight of the particles in the feed product, may have a diameter of about 10 μm or greater.

[0028] For example, the feed product may include particles comprising agglomerates of seaweed material and added oil, wherein at least about 95% by volume of the particles, based on the total volume of particles in the feed product, may have a diameter of about 10 μm or greater. In embodiments, at least about 98%, at least about 99%, or at least about 99.9% by volume of the particles, based on the total volume of particles in the feed product, may have a diameter of about 10 μm or greater.

[0029] As used herein, if a particle or agglomerate is not round, the diameter of the particle is the longest dimension. The size of a particle or agglomerate can be measured in accordance with ISO 13320:2020 using a laser diffraction particle size analyzer, such as one available from Malvern Panalytical. Particles or agglomerates that are too large to measure using a particle size analyzer can be measured using microscopic techniques, such as scanning electron microscopy or optical microscopy. Even larger particles or agglomerates can be measured using sieves. Methods that can be used to measure the size of particles and agglomerates are well known to those skilled in the art. Particle size can be expressed based on weight, volume, or count measurements. Volume-based measurements of particles and agglomerates are specifically provided herein.

[0030] The feed product may be in the form of a powder. As used herein, "powder" refers to a dry bulk solid composed of agglomerates of seaweed material and added oil, many particles, e.g., having diameters of about 10 μm to about 1 cm, that can flow substantially freely when shaken, tilted, or otherwise moved. In a powder, the particles can move past each other and collectively assume the shape of their container. However, powders may not contain a sufficient amount of liquid to form a paste or gel.

[0031] According to further embodiments, the feed product may further comprise molasses or other sugar material. In one embodiment herein, the molasses is dry molasses. The incorporation of molasses can significantly reduce dust, mask odors, and increase palatability. Without being bound by theory, it is believed that the incorporation of molasses can reduce odors, improve palatability, and retain bromoform or other halogenated compounds. Molasses may be used in combination with added oil. The amount of molasses or other sugar material used may be as high as is effective, but may be as low as the feed product remains powdery. In one embodiment, the feed product comprises, based on the total weight of the feed product, about 1% to about 50% molasses, or about 2% to about 40% molasses, or about 5% to about 30% molasses, or about 10% to about 25% molasses, or 10% to 20% molasses, or 12% to 18% molasses, or 14% to 16% molasses. It is understood that the feed product may include both molasses and oil. In certain embodiments, the feed product may include 10%-20% molasses, 10%-20% added oil, and 60%-80% seaweed material, based on the total weight of the feed product. In any of the foregoing embodiments, the molasses may be dry molasses of a composition well known to those skilled in the art.

[0032] As described herein, the feed product may include a binder. The binder may bind one or more halogen compounds, such as bromoform, resulting in one or more bound halogen compounds. Materials containing halogen compounds bound to a binder are sometimes referred to herein as "bound halogen compound materials," in which one or more halogen compounds are bound to the binder. Without being limited by theory, it is believed that bound halogen compounds may be more stable than unbound halogen compounds during transportation, storage, and processing of the feed product or components of the feed product.

[0033] In one or more embodiments, the binder can be any material (including a mixture of compounds) capable of binding with the desired halogen compound or halogen compounds. As described herein, a halogen compound "bound" to a binder refers to a halogen compound that is chemically bound to the binder. Various chemical bonds are contemplated, such as chemical associations (e.g., complexes formed by two or more compounds), hydrogen bonds, covalent bonds, ionic bonds, van der Waals bonds, or polar covalent bonds. Generally, the binding of these materials, such as cyclic oligosaccharides, will be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, cyclodextrins can be derived from complexes with one or more halogen compounds contemplated herein or otherwise associated with one or more halogen compounds contemplated herein. In one non-limiting embodiment, one or more cyclodextrins bind with bromoform to form a chemical complex or association, thereby forming a solid precipitate.

[0034] As described herein, the binder included in the feed products described herein may or may not bind one or more halogen compounds. For example, some of the binder may be bound to the halogen compound(s) and some may not be bound to the halogen compound(s). For example, there may be an excess of binder compared to the stoichiometric binding of the corresponding halogen compounds such that all of the halogen compounds are bound.

[0035] According to one or more embodiments, the feed product may contain about 0.01% or more by weight of binder (including bound and unbound binder). In additional embodiments, the feed product may contain less than about 0.01%, about 0.02% or more, about 0.03% or more, about 0.04% or more, about 0.05% or more, about 0.1% or more, about 0.2% or more, about 0.3% or more, about 0.4% or more, about 0.5% or more, about 0.6% or more, about 0.7% or more, about 0.8% or more, about 0.9% or more, or even about 1% or more by weight of binder, based on the total weight of the feed product. As described herein, the amount of binder does not include halogen compounds that may be combined with the binder. As an example, a mixture of about 1% by weight cyclodextrin (1 g per 100 g of seaweed material) can bind about 200 mg of bromoform, or about 0.2% in unharvested seaweed.

[0036] According to various embodiments, the binder may be a naturally occurring or synthetic material or combination of materials with limited or no pharmaceutical activity. For example, the binder may include a material recognized by those skilled in the art as being harmless to animals when ingested, and may be a naturally occurring or synthetic material. In some embodiments, the feed products described herein do not contain any active pharmaceutical ingredients or bioactive substances other than those that may be present in unharvested seaweed. For example, but not limited to, some cyclic oligosaccharides, such as cyclodextrins, are believed to be substantially or completely harmless to ruminants and other animals when ingested.

[0037] According to one or more embodiments, the binder may be an organic binder or an inorganic binder, as discussed herein. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, organic binders generally include a carbon skeletal structure, while inorganic binders do not.

[0038] In some embodiments, the organic binder may comprise one or more cyclic oligosaccharides. As used herein, the term "cyclic oligosaccharide" refers to a cyclic structure containing six or more sugar units. Some exemplary embodiments for use herein are cyclic oligosaccharides having six, seven, or eight sugar units, and combinations thereof. It is common in the art to abbreviate six-, seven-, and eight-membered cyclic oligosaccharides as α, β, and γ, respectively.

[0039] The cyclic oligosaccharides of the compositions used in this embodiment can include any suitable monosaccharide or mixture of monosaccharides. Examples of suitable monosaccharides include, but are not limited to, glucose, fructose, mannose, galactose, maltose, and combinations thereof. In one or more embodiments, the cyclic oligosaccharides used herein are α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, or a combination thereof. In one or more embodiments, the cyclic oligosaccharides used herein are α-cyclodextrin. In one or more embodiments, the cyclic oligosaccharides used herein are β-cyclodextrin.

[0040] The cyclic oligosaccharides or mixtures of cyclic oligosaccharides utilized in the embodiments described herein can be substituted with any suitable substituent or mixture of substituents. As used herein, the term "mixture of substituents" means that two or more different suitable substituents can be substituted on the cyclic oligosaccharide. Cyclodextrin derivatives can consist primarily of molecules in which some of the hydroxyl groups have been substituted. Suitable substituents include, but are not limited to, alkyl groups, hydroxyalkyl groups, dihydroxyalkyl groups, (hydroxyalkyl)alkylenyl bridging groups, such as cyclodextrin glycerol ethers, aryl groups, maltosyl groups, allyl groups, benzyl groups, alkanoyl groups, cationic cyclodextrins, such as those containing 2-hydroxy-3-(dimethylamino)propyl ether, quaternary ammonium groups, carboxyalkyl groups, sulfobutyl ether groups, sulfate groups, and anionic cyclodextrins such as succinylates, amphoteric cyclodextrins, and combinations thereof.

[0041] The substituents may be saturated or unsaturated, and may be straight-chain or branched. Some substituents include saturated and straight-chain alkyl groups, hydroxyalkyl groups, and combinations thereof. Some alkyl and hydroxyalkyl substituents are selected from C1-C8 alkyl or hydroxyalkyl groups, or combinations thereof. In some embodiments, the alkyl and hydroxyalkyl substituents are selected from C1-C6 alkyl or hydroxyalkyl groups, or combinations thereof. In further embodiments, the alkyl and hydroxyalkyl substituents are selected from C1-C4 alkyl or hydroxyalkyl groups, and combinations thereof. Embodiments of alkyl and hydroxyalkyl substituents include propyl, ethyl, and methyl groups.

[0042] In one or more embodiments, cyclic oligosaccharides for use in embodiments of the present disclosure are unsubstituted or substituted only with saturated linear alkyl or hydroxyalkyl substituents. Thus, some examples of cyclic oligosaccharides for use in the present disclosure are α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, methyl-α-cyclodextrin, methyl-β-cyclodextrin, hydroxypropyl-α-cyclodextrin, and hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin. One or more of these compounds are available from Wacker-Chemie GmbH, Hanns-Seidel-Platz 4, Munchen, DE, under the trade names Alpha W6 M and Beta W7 M, respectively.

[0043] According to further embodiments, the organic binder can include one or more amphiphilic components that combine to form a cohesive structure in an aqueous system, which in some embodiments has a lipophilic interior. Non-limiting examples of amphiphilic components include ethoxylated castor oil and polyoxyethylene-hydrogenated castor oil. In further embodiments, the organic binder can include one or more amphiphilic multi-arm star block copolymers, such as those described by Ternat et al. (Macromol. Chem. Phys. 208:131 2007). In still further embodiments, the organic binder can also include one or more polymeric emulsifiers having a lipophilic portion and a hydrophilic portion. Non-limiting examples of such polymeric emulsifiers include acrylate / C10-30 alkyl acrylate crosspolymer, available under the trade name Pemulen™ from Lubrizol Advanced Materials, Inc. (Cleveland, Ohio, USA).

[0044] In further embodiments, the binder may be an inorganic binder, for example, a molecular sieve such as, but not limited to, a zeolite. Zeolites may be crystalline aluminosilicates formed by corner-sharing of [SiO4]4- or [AlO4]5- tetrahedra, which have a periodic 1- to 3-dimensional framework, a unique pore structure, and excellent physical and chemical stability.

[0045] According to one or more embodiments described herein, the feed product may further include one or more quality extenders. In one embodiment, the feed product may include one or more quality extenders to help ensure an appropriate level of halogenated compounds relative to the total weight of the feed product. For example, the quality extenders described herein may further include one or more grains (such as barley, sorghum, oats, wheat, corn, or other similar grains that can be fed to cattle or other ruminants), grass / silage materials (whole, ground, or baled, including lecherin, corn silage, straw, or forage), cellulosic waste streams (whole or ground, including cottonseed, almond shells, spent grain, citrus peel, or combinations thereof). The one or more quality extenders may be whole, ground, steamed, processed into flour, or processed to provide a desired form. In one embodiment, the feed product includes barley flour. In another embodiment, the feed product comprises wheat flour. In another embodiment, the feed product comprises barley flour and wheat flour. In some embodiments, the feed product described herein comprises between about 15% and about 85% by weight, between about 15% and about 75% by weight, between about 15% and about 65% by weight, between about 15% and about 55% by weight, between about 15% and about 45% by weight, between about 15% and about 35% by weight, between about 25% and about 85% by weight, between about 25% and about 75% by weight, between about 25% and about 65% by weight, between about 25% and about 55% by weight, or between about 35% and about 85% by weight, based on the total weight of the feed product. It may comprise about 35% to about 75% by weight, about 35% to about 65% by weight, about 35% to about 55% by weight, about 45% to about 85% by weight, about 45% to about 75% by weight, about 45% to about 65% by weight of quality enhancers, or any subset thereof.

[0046] In further embodiments, the feed products described herein may further comprise one or more flow control agents, such as silica (including, for example, fumed silica), tricalcium phosphate, etc., to avoid clumpiness and allow material flow in bulk situations. In embodiments, the feed products described herein may comprise between about 0% and about 2%, between about 0% and about 1.5%, between about 0% and about 1%, between about 0.5% and about 2%, between about 0.5% and about 1.5%, between about 0.5% and about 1.5%, between about 0.75% and about 1.25% by weight of flow control agent, based on the total weight of the feed product. One or more flow control agents may be particularly useful in feed products with relatively high total or added oil levels. In such embodiments, feed products comprising between about 1.25% and about 2% by weight or between about 1.5% and about 2% by weight of flow control agent, based on the total weight of the feed product, may be particularly beneficial. In further embodiments, the feed products described herein may further comprise other stability enhancers, such as antioxidants (e.g., vitamin E), to avoid oxidative stability concerns. In further embodiments, the feed products described herein may further comprise added vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. In further embodiments, the feed products described herein may incorporate active pharmaceutical ingredients.

[0047] The feed product may contain from about 0.2% to about 2% by weight of one or more halogen compounds, such as halogen compounds of bromoform, based on the total weight of the feed product. In embodiments, the feed product may contain from about 0.2% to about 1.8%, from about 0.2% to about 1.6%, from about 0.2% to about 1.4%, from about 0.2% to about 1.2%, from about 0.2% to about 1%, from about 0.2% to about 0.8%, from about 0.2% to about 0.7%, from about 0.4% to about 2%, from about 0.5% to about 2%, from about 0.6% to about 2%, or from about 0.8% to about 2% by weight, based on the total weight of the feed product. The halogen compound may comprise about 1 wt % to about 2 wt %, about 1.2 wt % to about 2 wt %, about 1.4 wt % to about 2 wt %, about 1.6 wt % to about 2 wt %, about 1.8 wt % to about 2 wt %, about 0.4 wt % to about 1 wt %, about 0.5 wt % to about 1 wt %, about 0.2 wt % to about 0.8 wt %, about 0.2 wt % to about 0.7 wt %, about 0.4 wt % to about 0.8 wt %, about 0.5 wt % to about 0.7 wt %, or any subset thereof.

[0048] According to further embodiments, the present disclosure relates to a method for feeding a ruminant animal. According to such a method, a feed product can be administered to the ruminant animal in an amount effective to reduce methane emissions in the ruminant animal. As described herein, administering the feed product can include various steps, such as providing the feed product to the ruminant animal and allowing the ruminant animal to eat and digest the feed product. For example, the feed product can be mixed with other feeds or fed separately to the ruminant animal. According to various embodiments, the feed product disclosed herein can be administered to the animal on a continuous basis (e.g., eaten daily with the animal's regular food supply) or at specific spaced intervals (e.g., about once a week or once a month).

[0049] In embodiments, in addition to the feed product, the ruminant may also be fed forage, grain, or a combination thereof. The feed product may be mixed with the forage, grain, or both in a mixing device. The combined feed product and forage / grain may then be fed to the ruminant. In embodiments, the ruminant may be fed only the feed product as a treat, or may be fed forage, grain, or a combination thereof separately.

[0050] According to one or more embodiments, a method of making a feed product may include drying red algae to form a seaweed material, processing the seaweed material into particles, and mixing the particles with about 1% to about 35% by weight of at least one additive oil, based on the total weight of the feed product, thereby creating the feed product. In some embodiments, the method may include mixing the particles with about 1% to about 40%, about 3% to about 40%, about 5% to about 40%, about 10% to about 40%, about 15% to about 40%, about 20% to about 40%, about 1% to about 30%, about 3% to about 30%, about 5% to about 30%, about 8% to about 30%, about 10% to about 30%, about 12% to about 30%, about 5% to about 20%, about 8% to about 20%, about 10% to about 20%, about 12% to about 20%, or any subset thereof, of additive oil, based on the total weight of the feed product. The feed product may contain about 10% or less water by weight, based on the total weight of the feed product. In embodiments, the feed product may contain about 8% by weight or less, about 6% by weight or less, about 4% by weight or less, about 2% by weight or less, or about 1% by weight or less water, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0051] In one embodiment herein, it may be advantageous to provide a feed product containing a relatively low level of iodine. In one embodiment, the feed product contains about 0.5% by weight or less, about 0.25% by weight or less, about 0.1% by weight or less, or about 0.05% by weight or less iodine, based on the total weight of the feed product. In one embodiment, the feed product contains about 0.01% to about 0.5% by weight, about 0.01% to about 0.25% by weight, about 0.05% to about 0.25% by weight, or about 0.1% to about 0.25% by weight, based on the total weight of the feed product, or any subset thereof. One skilled in the art will understand that such iodine levels may be determined based on analyzing the iodine content present from any of the various total iodine-containing compounds that may be present.

[0052] According to one or more embodiments, harvested red algae may be supplied. In some embodiments, the harvested seaweed may be supplied by harvesting a prior seaweed. As described herein, the prior seaweed is the seaweed that, after any of a variety of processing steps (e.g., cutting, packaging, etc.), forms the seaweed material of the feed products described herein. As discussed herein, harvesting may generally refer to collecting the seaweed crop and removing the seaweed from its growing habitat, such as by cutting or other mechanical means. In other embodiments, the harvested seaweed may be supplied by another party, and the following steps are equally applicable.

[0053] As described herein, it is contemplated that additional processing steps may occur between the harvesting (and / or delivery) of the harvested seaweed and its initial contact with the aqueous solution. For example, in some embodiments, the harvested seaweed may be transported by boat from its harvesting site prior to contacting with the aqueous solution. In further embodiments, the harvested seaweed may be physically modified by cutting, chopping, etc., prior to the drying, processing, and mixing steps.

[0054] Red algae can be dried to form a seaweed material. Drying the seaweed can help preserve halogen compounds in the seaweed material by reducing water activity, which can help preserve the seaweed material and feed products. Additionally, in some embodiments where the seaweed is dried before being processed into particles, it may be easier to process the seaweed into particles. Contemplated drying methods include, but are not limited to, freeze-drying, freeze-sublimation drying (similar to freeze-drying but without the pressure change), and refractive window drying (where IR energy is used to dry the product). When dried, the seaweed material may contain some level of moisture, as will be well understood by those skilled in the art.

[0055] The seaweed may be processed into particles. In embodiments, the seaweed material may be processed into particles by crushing, grinding, milling, or similar processes.

[0056] The seaweed material can be mixed or otherwise combined with at least one additive oil. In certain embodiments, the seaweed material may be mixed with at least one additive oil by spraying the additive oil onto the seaweed material, by mixing the seaweed material and the additive oil in a mixer, by co-extruding the seaweed material and the additive oil, or by any combination of these methods or other methods that would be well understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

[0057] The seaweed material may be combined with at least one of a binder, a flow conditioner, molasses, or a quality enhancer. In embodiments, the seaweed material may be mixed or otherwise combined with at least one of a binder, a flow conditioner, molasses, or a quality enhancer in a mixer, extruder, or other similar mixing device.

[0058] In one or more embodiments, the seaweed material in the feed product may also be processed to reduce the content of water-soluble salts, particularly halide salts. For example, the reduction of these materials may lead to improved palatability to ruminants. In some embodiments, the seaweed feed material may have improved palatability to cattle, sheep, or other ruminants compared to freshly harvested seaweed.

[0059] In one or more embodiments, provided herein are methods of feeding a ruminant animal the feed product of the present invention. In one or more embodiments, provided herein are methods of reducing methane emissions in a ruminant animal, comprising feeding the ruminant animal the feed product of the present invention. In one embodiment, the feed product is administered to the ruminant animal for about 10 days or more, or about 20 days or more, or about 30 days or more, or about 60 days or more, or about 120 days or more, or about 150 days or more, or about 180 days or more. In one embodiment, the feed product is administered simultaneously with other feeds as described above to form a total mixed feed. In one embodiment, the method of feeding a ruminant animal or reducing methane emissions in a ruminant animal comprises feeding the ruminant animal daily about 0.1% or more, about 0.25% or more, about 0.5% or more, about 0.75% or more, or about 1% or more by weight of the feed product to the ruminant animal by weight of the total mixed feed. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that feeding ruminants in beef lots, dairy lots, or free-range environments can be variable due to the difficulty of feeding the animals precise levels of total mixed feed. Feeding instructions, such as accompanying packaging or other printed materials, may provide the foregoing dosing information as a guideline.

[0060] In further embodiments, the feed products herein may be administered to ruminants by use of a bolus or lick. In such embodiments, the bolus or lick comprises, consists of, or consists essentially of (i.e., 99 percent or more by weight) the feed product and other conventional materials provided to ruminants via a lick or bolus. In some embodiments, other additives may be present in the bolus or lick, such as substances conventionally known to be present in boluses and licks, as described herein.

[0061] In further embodiments, the bound halogen compound material (halogen compound bound with a binder) can be administered to a ruminant through the use of a bolus or lick. In such embodiments utilizing a bolus or lick, the bound halogen compound material can be completely or nearly completely separated from the seaweed material and then incorporated into a bolus or lick, which is then administered to the ruminant. In some embodiments, the bolus or lick may contain little or no seaweed-derived material other than the halogen compound, and may comprise, consist of, or consist essentially (i.e., 99% by weight or more) of the binder and halogen compound, along with other conventional materials used in boluses and licks, such as binders and other conventional materials delivered to ruminants via licks or boluses. In some embodiments, other additives may be present in the bolus or lick, such as conventionally known substances present in known boluses and licks, as described herein. In further embodiments, some additional seaweed-derived material may be present in the bolus or lick, separate from the bound halogen compound.

[0062] As described herein, a bolus refers to a type of oral supplement commonly used for ruminant animals such as cattle, sheep, and goats. A bolus may be a relatively large, capsule-like tablet designed to slowly release its contents over a period of time. Boli can be used for a variety of purposes, such as delivering minerals, vitamins, or medications to animals or treating specific conditions such as parasitic infections. A typical ruminant bolus may consist of an outer layer of a hard, slowly dissolving material surrounding a core of active ingredient. The bolus may be designed to remain in the animal's rumen (the first compartment of its omasum) for weeks or months, slowly releasing its contents as the outer layer dissolves. The sustained release of the bolus can ensure that the animal receives a relatively consistent dose of the active ingredient (such as bromoform) over an extended period of time.

[0063] Without being limited by theory, it is believed that the incorporation of a feed product into the bolus may contribute to modulating the excretion of halogenated materials. Additionally, it is believed that the incorporation of a feed product into the lick may contribute to improving the stability of halogenated materials such as bromoform.

[0064] Contemplated embodiments of the bolus include, but are not limited to, those having a duration of about 30 days and capable of delivering about 300 mg / day of bromoform. Such a bolus may utilize about 9 grams of bromoform, and the total weight of the bolus may be about 100 grams. Non-limiting aspects

[0065] According to a first aspect, the feed product comprises about 10% to about 95% by weight red algae material and about 6% to about 40% by weight total oil, and the feed product comprises about 10% by weight or less water, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0066] According to the second aspect, in conjunction with the first aspect, the seaweed material may comprise one or more species of Asparagopsis, such as Asparagopsis taxiformis and / or Asparagopsis armata.

[0067] According to the third aspect, in conjunction with the first or second aspect, the feed product may comprise from about 6% to about 30% by weight of total oil, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0068] According to the fourth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1 to 3, the feed product may comprise from about 10% to about 30% by weight of total oil, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0069] According to a fifth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1-4, the feed product may comprise about 25% or more by weight of seaweed material, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0070] According to a sixth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1 to 5, the feed product may comprise particles.

[0071] According to a seventh aspect, in conjunction with aspect 6, the particles of the feed product may comprise agglomerates of seaweed material particles and added oil.

[0072] According to the eighth aspect, in conjunction with aspect 7, the particles comprising agglomerates of seaweed material particles and added oil may have a diameter of between 10 μm and 1 cm.

[0073] According to a ninth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1-8, at least about 90% by volume or more of the particles have a diameter of about 10 μm or more, based on the total weight of all particles in the feed product.

[0074] According to a tenth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1-9, the seaweed material may include Asparagopsis taxiformis, Asparagopsis armata, or both.

[0075] According to an eleventh aspect, in conjunction with any of aspects 1-10, the total oil may comprise an added oil and an oil native to the seaweed material, wherein the added oil comprises one or more of canola oil, soybean oil, grapeseed oil, coconut oil, palm oil, rapeseed oil, sunflower seed oil, peanut oil, cottonseed oil, palm oil, or olive oil.

[0076] According to a twelfth aspect, in conjunction with any of aspects 1 to 11, the feed product may further comprise dried molasses.

[0077] According to a thirteenth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1 to 12, the feed product may further comprise a flow control agent.

[0078] According to a fourteenth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1 to thirteen, the feed product may further comprise a binder.

[0079] According to a fifteenth aspect, in conjunction with aspect fourteen, the binder may comprise α-cyclodextrin, β-cyclodextrin, one or more zeolites, or a combination thereof.

[0080] According to a sixteenth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1 to 15, the feed product may further comprise one or more quality enhancers.

[0081] According to a seventeenth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1 to 16, the feed product may comprise about 5% or less by weight of water, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0082] According to an eighteenth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1 to 17, the feed product may have a water activity at 25°C of about 0.6 or less.

[0083] According to a nineteenth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1 to 18, the feed product may have a water activity at 25°C of about 0.2 or less.

[0084] According to a twentieth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1 to 19, the seaweed material may be freeze-dried seaweed.

[0085] According to a twenty-first aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1 to 20, the feed product may comprise 0.2% to 2% by weight of halogen compounds, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0086] According to a 22nd aspect, in conjunction with claim 21, the halogen compound may comprise bromoform.

[0087] According to a twenty-third aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 1 to 22, a method of feeding a ruminant may comprise administering to the ruminant an amount of a feed product effective to reduce methane emissions in the ruminant.

[0088] According to a twenty-fourth aspect, in conjunction with aspect twenty-third, the ruminant may be a cow or a sheep.

[0089] According to a twenty-fifth aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects twenty-three or twenty-four, the method may further comprise administering fodder, grain, or a combination thereof to the ruminant.

[0090] According to a 25th aspect, in conjunction with any one of aspects 23 to 25, the method may further comprise mixing the feed product with ruminant feed in a mixing device before administering the feed product to the ruminant.

[0091] According to a twenty-seventh aspect, alone or in combination with any one of aspects 1-26, a method of making a feed product comprises drying red algae to form a seaweed material; processing the seaweed material into particles; and combining the particles with about 1% to about 35% by weight of at least one additive oil, thereby creating a feed product, wherein the feed product comprises about 10% by weight or less of water, based on the total weight of the feed product.

[0092] According to a twenty-eighth aspect, in conjunction with aspect 27, the step of drying the seaweed may comprise freeze-drying. [Example]

[0093] Various aspects of the present disclosure will be further clarified by the following examples, which are illustrative in nature and should not be construed as limiting the subject matter of the present disclosure. Comparative example 1 (CE-1)

[0094] In the first comparative example, asparagopsis seaweed (Sparagopsis armata, wild-harvested in New Zealand) was freeze-dried and ground to form a seaweed material. The freeze-dried and ground seaweed material was then fed into a Malvern Mastersizer 3000 laser analyzer to measure particle size and other properties. The freeze-dried ground seaweed material had a particle size of 1203 mm. 2 The seaweed had a specific surface area of ​​0.6% to 1.5% by weight of total and native oil content, a moisture content of 4% to 5% by weight, a water activity of 0.12 to 0.14, and a bromoform (BF) content of 1 mg to 2 mg per gram of seaweed. Note that this relatively low level of bromoform content may not be suitable for animal feed and was used as a representative material for these tests. The dimensional properties of the examples are shown in Table 1 below. Percentiles refer to volume percentages. For example, 10% by volume of the particles in CE-1 have a particle size less than 38.1 μm. Comparative example 2 (CE-2)

[0095] A sample of CE-1 was mixed with 3 wt. % of additive oil to form sample CE-2. Sample CE-2 was then fed into a Malvern Laser Analyzer and the results are shown in Table 1 below. Example A (EX-A)

[0096] A sample of CE-1 was mixed with 5 wt. % of additive oil to form sample EX-A. Sample EX-A was then fed into a Malvern laser analyzer and the results are shown in Table 1 below. Example B (EX-B)

[0097] A sample of CE-1 was mixed with 7 wt. % of additive oil to form sample EX-B. Sample EX-B was then fed into a Malvern laser analyzer and the results are shown in Table 1 below. Example C (EX-C)

[0098] A sample of CE-1 was mixed with 10 wt. % added oil to form sample EX-C. Sample EX-C was fed into a Malvern laser analyzer, but the particles were too large to be evaluated by the Malvern laser. However, sample EX-C was still a powder upon visual inspection. The particles can be measured using sieves. [Table 1]

[0099] As can be seen from Table 1, the particle size increases with increasing amount of added oil. In particular, the amount of particles with a size of 10 μm decreases dramatically with 5 wt.% added oil. This decrease accelerates with the addition of at least 7 wt.% added oil. Example D

[0100] A feed product of the present invention was produced and includes asparagopsis seaweed, wheat flour, dried molasses, and canola oil. The feed product of Example D has the following properties as shown in Table 2: [Table 2] Example E

[0101] The feed product of Example EX-A, EX-B, EX-C, or D is produced in a quantity sufficient to feed at least 50 beef lot or dairy cows. Each head of cattle is administered approximately 50 grams of feed product per 10 kilograms of total mixed feed (i.e., approximately 0.5% feed product by total weight of total mixed feed) daily for 150 days. The total mixed feed may include silage and grain, based on the feeding lot / farm's usual practices and procedural preferences. The feed product is top-layered or otherwise included as a supplement to the daily total mixed feed. Beef or dairy products obtained from cattle fed according to this example are accompanied by one or more of the following statements: (1) Reducing enteric methane emissions from beef feedlot cattle by up to 90% (2) A reduction of enteric methane emissions from dairy cows by up to 90% (3) Aids digestion (4) Digestive aids contain essential trace metals, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients (5) Reducing the environmental impact of animal methane without changing production processes (6) Low-methane beef (7) Low-methane milk

[0102] Ranges can be expressed herein as from "about" one particular value, and / or to "about" another particular value. When such a range is expressed, another embodiment includes from the one particular value and / or to the other particular value. Similarly, when values ​​are expressed as approximations, by use of the antecedent "about," it will be understood that the particular value forms another embodiment. It will be further understood that the endpoints of each of the ranges are significant both in relation to the other endpoint, and independently of the other endpoint.

[0103] Unless otherwise expressly stated, any method described herein is in no way intended to be construed as requiring its steps to be performed in a particular order, nor is it intended to require that its steps be performed in any particular orientation of any apparatus. Thus, unless a method claim actually recites an order that its steps should follow, or any apparatus claim actually recites an order or orientation relative to individual components, or unless it is specifically stated otherwise in the claim or description that the steps are to be limited to a particular order, or that no particular order or orientation relative to the apparatus components is recited, no order or orientation is intended to be inferred in any respect. This applies to all possible non-expressive bases for interpretation, including matters of logic (regarding the placement of steps, operational flow, component order, or component orientation) and simple semantics (derived from grammatical organization or punctuation), as well as the number or type of embodiments described herein.

[0104] As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example, reference to "one" element includes aspects having two or more such elements unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

Claims

1. A feed product comprising: about 10% to about 95% by weight of red algae material; about 6% to about 40% by weight total oil; the feed product contains about 10% or less by weight of water, based on the total weight of the feed product; Feed production.

2. The seaweed material includes at least one of Asparagopsis taxiformis and Asparagopsis armata.

10. The feed product of claim 1.

3. about 22% to about 40% by weight of the total oil, based on the total weight of the feed product; 3. A feed product according to claim 1 or 2.

4. comprising about 25% or more by weight of seaweed material based on the total weight of the feed product; A feed product according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

5. the feed product comprises particles of seaweed material, the particles comprising agglomerates of seaweed material and added oil; A feed product according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. the feed product comprises particles, and about 90% by volume or more of the particles have a diameter of about 10 μm or more, based on the total volume of all particles of the feed product; A feed product according to any one of claims 1 to 5.

7. further comprising molasses, a flow control agent, and / or a binder; A feed product according to any one of claims 1 to 6.

8. further comprising one or more quality enhancers; A feed product according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. containing no more than about 5% by weight of water based on the total weight of the feed product; A feed product according to any one of claims 1 to 8.

10. The feed product is characterized by having a water activity of about 0.6 or less at 25°C. A feed product according to any one of claims 1 to 9.

11. The seaweed material is freeze-dried. A feed product according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. About 0.2% to 2% by weight of one or more halogenated compounds, based on the total weight of the feed product; A feed product according to any one of claims 1 to 11.

13. 13. A method of feeding ruminants with the feed product of any one of claims 1 to 12, comprising the steps of: administering to a ruminant animal an amount of said feed product effective to reduce methane emissions in the ruminant animal.

14. further comprising the step of mixing the feed product and ruminant feed in a mixing device prior to administering the feed product to the ruminant; 15. The method of claim 14.

15. 1. A method of making a feed product, comprising: drying the red algae to form a seaweed material; processing the seaweed material into particles; combining said particles of said seaweed material with about 1% to about 35% by weight of at least one additive oil, thereby creating said feed product; the feed product contains about 10% or less by weight of water, based on the total weight of the feed product; method.

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