Methane-Reducing Feed for Ruminants Based on Extruded Grains, Manufacturing Method Thereof, and Carbon Credit Management Method Using the Same

Abstract

The present invention relates to a methane-reducing feed for ruminants, a method for manufacturing the same, and a carbon emission rights management method using the feed. More specifically, the invention relates to a puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants capable of reducing methane production in the rumen by puffing a raw grain composed of one or more of corn, barley, wheat, sorghum, and oats to increase the starch gelatinization rate, and mixing the same with a protein source, a fiber source, vitamins, and minerals; a method for manufacturing the same; and a carbon emission rights management method that calculates the amount of methane reduction using the feed and generates reduction data verifiable by the MRV method. Accordingly, the methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grain according to the present invention includes puffed grain, a protein source, fiber, and vitamins and minerals, and based on feeding data for this methane-reducing feed, the amount of methane reduction can be calculated and carbon credit certification can be performed.

Description

Technology Field

[0001] The present invention relates to feed for ruminants and a method for manufacturing the same, and more specifically, to a puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants capable of reducing methane production in the rumen by puffing a raw grain composed of one or more of corn, barley, wheat, sorghum, and oats to increase the starch gelatinization rate and mixing it with a protein source, a fiber source, vitamins, and minerals, a method for manufacturing the same, and a carbon emission rights management method that calculates the amount of methane reduction using the said feed and generates reduction data verifiable by the MRV method.

[0002] Furthermore, unlike general feed additives primarily intended to improve the intestinal digestive function of ruminants, the present invention relates to a technology that regulates the fermentation pathway within the rumen to reduce the methane production pathway, and converts the resulting methane reduction into an equivalent amount of carbon dioxide to generate data that can be utilized for carbon-neutral livestock farming, low-carbon livestock farming certification, and carbon credit registration. Background Technology

[0003] Ruminant animals such as cattle, dairy cows, Korean native cattle, sheep, and goats break down ingested feed through microbial fermentation within the rumen. During this process, volatile fatty acids are generated and utilized as an energy source for the animals, but at the same time, methane is produced by methane-producing bacteria that utilize hydrogen and carbon dioxide.

[0004] Since methane is a greenhouse gas with a greater impact on global warming than carbon dioxide, technology to reduce intestinal fermentation methane in ruminants within the livestock sector is important for carbon-neutral livestock farming and the implementation of national greenhouse gas reduction targets.

[0005] Conventionally, feed additive technologies have been proposed for the purpose of improving livestock intestinal health, enhancing palatability, and improving digestive function. For example, there are feed additive technologies that include enzymes, sugars, and plant-based ingredients to reduce harmful intestinal bacteria or improve digestive function. However, these conventional technologies primarily focus on improving intestinal health or increasing feed intake, and do not include technical configurations that regulate fermentation pathways within the rumen to reduce methane production and utilize the resulting reduction for carbon emission credit management.

[0006] Furthermore, conventional grain feeds may be administered with insufficiently gelatinized starch, resulting in inconsistent fermentation efficiency in the rumen and limitations in adequately increasing the propionic acid production ratio. Since the propionic acid production pathway in rumen fermentation is associated with hydrogen consumption, an increase in the propionic acid production ratio reduces the hydrogen available to methane-producing bacteria, which may inhibit the methane production pathway.

[0007] Therefore, there is a need for a feed and carbon credit management method that can increase the starch gelatinization rate by physically changing the starch structure of grains and apply this to the composition of ruminant feed to induce the rumen fermentation pathway in the direction of propionic acid production, and furthermore, manage the reduced amount of methane as data verifiable through the MRV method. Prior art literature

[0008] Republic of Korea Registered Patent No. 10-2649857 The problem to be solved

[0009] The present invention was devised to solve the above problems, and the objective of the present invention is to provide a method for manufacturing a methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains, which can increase the rate of propionic acid production in the rumen and reduce the methane production pathway by puffing raw grains so that the starch gelatinization rate is included in the range of 80 to 98% and feeding this to ruminants.

[0010] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a methane-reducing feed for ruminants that is manufactured by the above-described manufacturing method and contains puffed grains, a protein source, a fiber source, vitamins, and minerals, and can reduce methane emissions from ruminants.

[0011] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide a carbon emission rights management method that collects feeding amount data, intake amount data, body weight data, or productivity data for ruminants fed the methane-reducing feed, calculates the methane reduction amount and carbon dioxide equivalent amount based thereon, and generates reduction data verifiable by the MRV method.

[0012] In addition, another objective of the present invention is to provide basic data that can be used for carbon-neutral livestock farming operations, low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction projects, and carbon credit registration by linking the puffed grain-based feed manufacturing step with the carbon reduction amount management step, thereby utilizing feed quality control data and ruminant feeding data together. means of solving the problem

[0013] To achieve the above objective, according to the present invention

[0014] To solve the above problem, a method for manufacturing methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains according to the present invention may include: a raw material preparation step of preparing raw grains composed of one or more of corn, barley, wheat, sorghum, and oats, and removing foreign substances, metallic foreign substances, immature grains, and deteriorated grains; a moisture control step of supplying water or steam to the raw grains to control the moisture content to 10-20% by weight and aging them; a puffing treatment step of puffing the moisture-controlled raw grains under conditions of 120-220°C and 5-30 bar; an expansion forming step of forming a porous structure by instantaneous depressurization; a drying step; a grinding step; a mixing step of mixing puffed grains, a protein source, a fiber source, vitamins, and minerals; a pelletizing step; and a quality control step of selecting feed in which the starch gelatinization rate is included in the range of 80-98%.

[0015] The above protein source may be one or more of soybean meal, rapeseed meal, cottonseed meal, DDGS, and corn gluten feed. Preferably, it may include soybean meal and DDGS.

[0016] The above fiber source may be one or more of alfalfa hay, timothy hay, ryegrass hay, rice straw, oat straw, and brewers' spent grain. Preferably, it may include alfalfa hay powder and timothy hay powder.

[0017] The above vitamins may include one or more of vitamin A, vitamin D3, vitamin E, and the vitamin B group.

[0018] The above minerals may include one or more of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and cobalt.

[0019] The feed according to the present invention may comprise 20 to 70 weight% puffed grain, 10 to 30 weight% protein source, 5 to 20 weight% fiber source, 0.5 to 3 weight% vitamin, and 0.5 to 3 weight% mineral.

[0020] The carbon emission rights management method according to the present invention may include: a data collection step for collecting feed amount data, intake amount data, body weight data, or productivity data for a ruminant receiving the feed; a carbon reduction amount calculation step for calculating the methane emission amount or methane reduction amount of the ruminant based on the data and converting the methane reduction amount into a carbon dioxide equivalent amount; and a reduction data generation step for verifying the data regarding the carbon reduction amount using the MRV method.

[0021] In addition, as a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a carbon emission rights management method using a puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants produced by the above manufacturing method,

[0022] A data collection step (S11) for collecting one or more of feed amount data, feed intake data, body weight gain data, and productivity data for ruminants fed the above feed; a carbon reduction amount calculation step (S12) for calculating the reference methane emissions and actual methane emissions of ruminants according to the IPCC Tier 2 methodology based on the above data, calculating the methane reduction amount based on the difference, and converting it into carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq); and a reduction data generation step (S13) for verifying the data regarding the carbon reduction amount using the MRV (Monitoring, Reporting and Verification) method. The method includes a greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14) that uses the reduction data to accumulate and manage the carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) calculated in the carbon reduction amount calculation step, by individual, by breeding group, or by farm, and evaluates the reduction performance against the set greenhouse gas reduction target. The reduction data can be used as basic data for carbon-neutral livestock farming operations, implementation of the National Greenhouse Gas Reduction Target (NDC), low-carbon livestock certification, carbon emission allowance registration, or carbon emission allowance trading.

[0023] In addition, as a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a carbon emission rights management method using a puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants is performed by a carbon-neutral livestock operation system comprising a livestock identification sensor, an electronic scale sensor, an automatic feeding device, a central data management server, and a data storage unit, comprising: a feed feeding step (S11) of feeding a puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants manufactured by the manufacturing method of the present invention to an individual ruminant; and an individual identification step (S12) for a ruminant that received the feed in the feed feeding step (S11), wherein the livestock identification sensor recognizes an RFID tag, an electronic ear tag, or biometric information to obtain individual identification information and stores the individual identification information in a central data management server. A data collection step (S13) in which, based on the individual identification information obtained in the individual identification step (S12), the electronic scale sensor measures the change in weight of each individual, and the automatic feeder measures the feeding amount and actual intake amount of the feed to generate individual feed data, and then transmits the individual feed data to a central data management server; a data linkage step (S14) in which the central data management server matches the individual feed data generated in the data collection step (S13) with starch gelatinization rate information to generate individual feed history data, and stores the individual feed history data in a data storage unit; and a methane reduction amount calculation step (S15) in which the central data management server calculates the individual feed utilization efficiency using the individual feed history data generated in the data linkage step (S14), calculates the individual standard methane emission and actual methane emission based on the calculated feed utilization efficiency and change in weight, and then calculates the individual methane reduction amount corresponding to the difference between the standard methane emission and the actual methane emission.A carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16) in which the central data management server calculates a carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) based on the individual methane reduction amount calculated in the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15); a reduction data generation step (S17) in which the central data management server generates greenhouse gas reduction data including the carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) calculated in the carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16), individual identification information, feed amount information, feed intake information, and body weight change information, and stores the greenhouse gas reduction data in a data storage unit; a greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18) in which the greenhouse gas reduction data stored in the data storage unit is aggregated by individual, by breeding group, or by farm to calculate a cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq), calculates a greenhouse gas reduction rate by comparing the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) with a reference greenhouse gas emission amount, and calculates the degree of achievement of the reduction target by comparing the greenhouse gas reduction rate with a pre-set greenhouse gas reduction target. and may include a certification linkage step (S19) for generating a certification dataset including the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and reduction target achievement rate calculated in the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18), and storing the certification dataset in a data storage unit so that the certification dataset can be used as verification data for low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction project registration, carbon reduction certification, carbon emission allowance registration, or carbon emission allowance trading.; Effects of the invention

[0024] According to the present invention, starch utilization in the rumen of ruminants can be improved by puffing raw grains to increase the starch gelatinization rate to a range of 80 to 98%.

[0025] In addition, according to the present invention, the rate of propionic acid production in the rumen increases by feeding puffed grains, and the hydrogen available to methane-producing bacteria decreases, thereby reducing the methane production pathway.

[0026] In addition, according to the present invention, puffed grains are combined with a protein source, a fiber source, vitamins, and minerals to achieve a methane reduction effect while maintaining the nutritional balance of ruminants.

[0027] In addition, according to the present invention, since the starch gelatinization rate of the feed composition is confirmed during the quality control stage and only methane-reducing feed above a certain level can be selected, the uniformity of feed quality and the reproducibility of the methane reduction effect can be improved.

[0028] In addition, according to the present invention, since the amount of methane reduction can be calculated using feed amount, intake amount, body weight, and productivity data and converted into a carbon dioxide equivalent, the amount of greenhouse gas reduction in the livestock sector can be quantitatively managed.

[0029] In addition, according to the present invention, since verifiable reduction data can be generated using the MRV method, it can be utilized as basic data for carbon-neutral livestock farming operations, implementation of national greenhouse gas reduction targets, low-carbon livestock certification, carbon emission credit registration, and carbon emission credit trading. Brief explanation of the drawing

[0030] FIG. 1 is a block diagram schematically illustrating a carbon emission rights management method using a puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention. Specific details for implementing the invention

[0031] Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below. However, the embodiments of the present invention are intended to explain the technical concept of the present invention, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the following embodiments.

[0032] 1. Definition of Terms

[0033] In this specification, the term “ruminant” means an animal having a rumen, and may include one or more of cattle, dairy cows, Korean native cattle, beef cattle, sheep, goats, and deer.

[0034] In this specification, “puffed grain” may refer to grain in which raw grain is extruded or puffed under high temperature and high pressure conditions after moisture control, and a porous structure is formed as internal moisture expands due to instantaneous depressurization.

[0035] In this specification, “starch gelatinization rate” may refer to the degree to which starch in grains is reduced in crystallinity by heat, moisture, and pressure and changed into a state that is easily utilized by digestive enzymes or rumen microorganisms.

[0036] In this specification, “methane reduction” may mean a reduction in methane emissions generated during the intestinal fermentation process compared to when ruminants are fed standard feed.

[0037] In this specification, “carbon reduction amount” may refer to a value obtained by converting the reduction in methane emissions from ruminants into a carbon dioxide equivalent using the global warming potential of methane.

[0038] In this specification, “MRV” means Monitoring, Reporting and Verification, and may refer to a method of generating and managing relevant data to enable monitoring, reporting, and verification of greenhouse gas reduction amounts.

[0039] 2. Raw material preparation step (S1)

[0040] In the raw material preparation step (S1) of the present invention, raw grains consisting of one or more of corn, barley, wheat, sorghum, and oats are prepared.

[0041] The above corn has a high starch content, so when puffed, it has a significant effect of increasing the starch gelatinization rate and can be used as a fermentation substrate in the rumen, and the above barley has excellent fermentability in the rumen and can improve starch utilization through puffing treatment.

[0042] In addition, the wheat has a high starch content and can exhibit rapid fermentation after puffing treatment, the sorghum has high drought resistance and can be stably secured as a feed ingredient and its digestibility can be improved by puffing treatment, and the oats contain both fibrous components and starch and can be utilized as a feed ingredient for ruminants.

[0043] Foreign substances can be removed from the raw grains using a known sorter. The foreign substances may include metallic foreign substances, immature grains, and spoiled grains. In this case, metallic foreign substances can be removed using a magnetic separator, and spoiled grains can be removed through color sorting or visual sorting.

[0044] This step is designed to ensure the safety and uniformity of feed quality. In particular, since the inclusion of spoiled grains or mold-contaminated cereals can adversely affect the feed intake and health of ruminants, it is advisable to remove them during the raw material preparation stage.

[0045] As a preferred embodiment, the raw grain may comprise 40% by weight of corn, 30% by weight of barley, 10% by weight of wheat, 10% by weight of sorghum, and 10% by weight of oats.

[0046] 3. Moisture control step (S2)

[0047] The moisture control step (S2) of the present invention is a pretreatment step for stably securing the puffing treatment efficiency and starch gelatinization rate of the raw grain.

[0048] Specifically, water, hot water, or steam may be supplied to raw grains that have undergone a raw material preparation step. The amount of water, hot water, or steam supplied may be adjusted according to the type of raw grain, initial moisture content, particle size, and puffing treatment conditions.

[0049] In the above moisture control step, the moisture content of the raw grain can be controlled to 10 to 20 weight%, preferably 12 to 18 weight%, and more preferably 15 weight%.

[0050] If the moisture content of the raw grain is less than 10% by weight, the starch particles inside the grain may not swell sufficiently during the puffing process, and a low starch gelatinization rate may be formed. In addition, the difference in heat transfer between the inside and outside of the grain may increase, resulting in an uneven puffing state.

[0051] Conversely, if the moisture content of the raw grain exceeds 20% by weight, excessive stickiness or clumping may occur during the puffing process, the transportability of the raw material inside the extrusion puffer may decrease, and the energy consumption for drying after puffing may increase.

[0052] The above moisture control step can be performed by various known methods, for example, spraying water or steam onto raw grains, bringing raw grains into contact with hot water, preheating raw grains in a steam atmosphere, or a combination thereof.

[0053] For example, raw grains can be introduced into a known stirring tank or conditioner, and then water or steam can be sprayed while stirring to uniformly apply moisture to the surface of the raw grains. At this time, the stirring tank or conditioner may include a paddle, screw, or rotary stirring unit to ensure that the raw grains move uniformly without clumping.

[0054] In addition, when steam is used, the steam can supply moisture while preheating the surface of the raw grain, so the swelling and gelatinization of starch particles can proceed more quickly in the subsequent high-temperature and high-pressure puffing treatment step.

[0055] 4. Aging stage (S3)

[0056] The aging step (S3) of the present invention is a step for homogenizing the moisture distribution inside the raw grain that has undergone the moisture control step (S2).

[0057] Specifically, in the moisture control step (S2), water or steam may be preferentially supplied to the surface or outer layer of the raw grain. In this case, a difference in moisture content may occur between the surface and the center of the raw grain. For example, immediately after supplying water or steam, the moisture content of the surface of the raw grain may be higher than that of the center, and moisture may not have sufficiently penetrated into the center.

[0058] If raw grains in this state are immediately puffed, the degree of heating, swelling, and gelatinization may differ between the surface and center of the grains, and as a result, the starch gelatinization rate and porous structure of the puffed grains may be formed unevenly.

[0059] Therefore, in the present invention, by performing a ripening step (S3) after a moisture control step (S2), the moisture supplied to the surface of the raw grain is allowed to diffuse and penetrate into the interior of the grain, and the internal moisture distribution of the raw grain can be homogenized.

[0060] In the above aging step (S3), raw grains that have undergone a moisture control step may be introduced into a sealed aging tank. The sealed aging tank may be a sealed container or chamber capable of blocking direct circulation with external air.

[0061] The above-mentioned aging tank may include one or more of an input port for raw grains, an output port, an internal pressure regulating unit, a temperature regulating unit, a humidity regulating unit, and a stirring unit. The above-mentioned internal pressure regulating unit may include a vacuum pump, a compressed air supply unit, a nitrogen supply unit, or a pressure regulating valve for reducing or increasing the pressure inside the aging tank.

[0062] The above temperature control unit may include a heater, a cooler, a heat exchanger, or a temperature sensor to maintain the temperature inside the aging tank in the range of 10 to 40℃.

[0063] The above stirring unit may include a paddle, screw, or rotary drum structure to gently stir the raw grains inside the aging tank to further homogenize the moisture distribution.

[0064] The above aging step (S3) can be performed under temperature conditions of 10 to 40°C. If the aging temperature is below 10°C, the diffusion rate of moisture slows down, so moisture penetration into the raw grain may not be sufficient. Conversely, if the aging temperature exceeds 40°C, the possibility of surface microorganism proliferation on the raw grain increases, or the storage stability of the grain may decrease.

[0065] Accordingly, the aging step (S3) can be performed under temperature conditions of 10 to 40°C, preferably 20 to 35°C. The aging step (S3) can be performed for 30 minutes to 12 hours.

[0066] If the aging time is less than 30 minutes, the moisture present on the surface of the raw grain may not sufficiently diffuse to the center. Conversely, if the aging time exceeds 12 hours, the total manufacturing time increases, and the possibility of quality degradation due to the long-term storage of the raw grain may increase.

[0067] Therefore, the aging time can be adjusted in the range of 30 minutes to 12 hours depending on the type of raw grain, particle size, initial moisture content, and target moisture content.

[0068] In the present invention, the aging step (S3) is not merely a process of leaving the raw grain for a certain period of time, but includes a depressurization and pressure-repeated aging process that repeatedly changes the pressure inside the aging tank to allow moisture to penetrate into the raw grain.

[0069] Specifically, in the aging step (S3), the process of reducing the pressure inside the sealed aging tank to 0.1 to 0.8 atmospheres and then increasing the pressure back to 1 to 3 atmospheres can be repeated two or more times.

[0070] The above depressurization process may be a process for discharging air present in the internal pores or microstructure of the raw grain to the outside.

[0071] When the pressure inside the aging tank is reduced to 0.1 to 0.8 atmospheres, air or gas present inside the raw grain can escape to the outside of the grain. Subsequently, when the pressure inside the aging tank rises to 1 to 3 atmospheres during the repressurization process, moisture present outside the raw grain can penetrate into the internal pores of the grain or around the starch particles.

[0072] In other words, in the present invention, air in the internal pores of the grain is removed by a depressurization process, and external moisture is pushed into the interior by a pressure process, thereby promoting moisture penetration and uniform moisture distribution.

[0073] In the above vacuum process, if the internal pressure of the aging tank drops excessively to less than 0.1 atmospheres, the load on the device increases, and moisture on the surface of the raw grain may evaporate excessively. Conversely, if the internal pressure of the aging tank exceeds 0.8 atmospheres in the vacuum process, the effect of removing air from the internal pores of the raw grain may not be sufficient.

[0074] Accordingly, the depressurization process can be performed in the range of 0.1 to 0.8 atmospheres, preferably in the range of 0.2 to 0.6 atmospheres.

[0075] In the above-mentioned pressure process, the internal pressure of the aging tank can be controlled to 1 to 3 atmospheres. If the pressure in the pressure process is less than 1 atmosphere, the effect of pushing moisture into the grain may be insufficient. Conversely, if the pressure in the pressure process exceeds 3 atmospheres, equipment costs increase, and particle damage or excessive compaction of the raw grain may occur.

[0076] Therefore, the pressure reduction process can be performed in a range of 1 to 3 atmospheres, preferably in a range of 1.2 to 2 atmospheres. The pressure reduction process and the pressure reduction process can be repeated two or more times. If the number of repetitions is limited to one time, the expulsion of air and the penetration of moisture into the internal pores of the raw grain may not be sufficient.

[0077] When the number of repetitions is 2 or more, the removal of air and the penetration of moisture inside the raw grain are repeated, so that the moisture distribution inside the grain can become more uniform. The number of repetitions for depressurization and abdominal pressure may be 2 to 10 times, and preferably 2 to 5 times. The holding time for each of the depressurization process and abdominal pressure process may be 1 minute to 60 minutes.

[0078] For example, the inside of the aging tank can be maintained at a reduced pressure of 0.1 to 0.8 atmospheres for 1 to 30 minutes, and then the pressure can be increased to 1 to 3 atmospheres and maintained for 1 to 30 minutes. During the above repeated reduced and increased pressure processes, the raw grains may be kept in a stationary state or gently stirred.

[0079] When the raw grain is gently stirred, the variation in moisture distribution between grain particles can be reduced, and moisture non-uniformity depending on the position inside the aging tank can be prevented. The raw grain after the aging step (S3) is completed can have a state in which the moisture distribution inside the grain is uniform.

[0080] Here, the homogenization of moisture distribution may mean a state in which the difference in moisture content between the surface and center of the raw grain, or between grain samples taken from different locations, is reduced.

[0081] For example, the difference in moisture content of raw grain samples taken from multiple locations after maturation is complete may be ±2% by weight or less. The homogenization of the moisture distribution is very important in the subsequent puffing treatment step (S4).

[0082] If the internal moisture distribution of the raw grain is not uniform, some grains may be excessively puffed and some grains may not be sufficiently puffed during the puffing process. Accordingly, the starch gelatinization rate, porous structure, particle physical properties, and digestibility of the puffed grain may vary by batch or particle.

[0083] On the other hand, when raw grains with a uniform moisture distribution are puffed through a repeated depressurization and pressure aging process as in the present invention, heat and pressure can be applied uniformly to the entire grain, and the starch gelatinization rate can be stably increased.

[0084] In addition, raw grains with a uniform moisture distribution due to the ripening step (S3) can stably reach a starch gelatinization rate of 80–98% after puffing treatment. Accordingly, the proportion of products that can be selected as methane-reducing feed in the subsequent quality control step can be increased.

[0085] The above aging step (S3) serves as a pretreatment process for the puffing treatment step, and plays a role in improving the uniformity of starch gelatinization rate, the uniformity of porous structure formation, the reproducibility of feed quality, and the stability of the methane reduction effect.

[0086] In addition, the above maturation step (S3) can also contribute to the reliability of reduction data required in subsequent carbon emission rights management methods. That is, reliability between feeding data and methane reduction amount data can be ensured only when methane-reducing feed of the same quality can be stably manufactured, and the above maturation step (S3) reduces quality deviation between feed manufacturing batches, thereby improving the reliability of reduction amount calculation and MRV verification.

[0087] Therefore, the aging step (S3) of the present invention is not a simple storage or storage process, but can function as a key pretreatment step to homogenize the internal moisture distribution of the raw grain through repeated depressurization and pressure reduction, and to stably secure the starch gelatinization rate and methane reduction effect in the subsequent puffing treatment step.

[0088] As an example, a moisture sensor may be used to measure the moisture content of raw grains. The moisture sensor may be a near-infrared moisture sensor, a gravimetric moisture meter, or an electrical resistance moisture meter.

[0089] If the moisture content of the raw grain measured by the moisture sensor is lower than the set moisture content, the supply amount of water or steam can be increased, and if the measured moisture content is higher than the set moisture content, the supply amount of water or steam can be decreased or pre-drying can be performed.

[0090] Accordingly, the raw grain can have a uniform moisture state before puffing treatment, and the starch gelatinization rate can stably reach the range of 80 to 98% in the subsequent puffing treatment step.

[0091] Therefore, the moisture control step is not merely a simple humidification step, but can function as a key pretreatment step to stably secure the starch gelatinization rate, porous structure formation, digestion utilization rate, and methane reduction effect of the puffing treatment step.

[0092] 4. Puffing treatment step (S4)

[0093] In the puffing treatment step (S4) of the present invention, moisture-controlled raw grains are fed into a high-temperature, high-pressure extruder and puffed under conditions of a temperature of 120 to 220°C and a pressure of 5 to 30 bar. Preferably, puffing treatment can be performed under conditions of a temperature of 150 to 200°C, and more preferably under conditions of 160 to 190°C. Additionally, puffing treatment can preferably be performed under conditions of a pressure of 10 to 25 bar.

[0094] During the puffing process, starch particles in the grain swell due to heat, moisture, and pressure, the crystallinity of the starch decreases, and the starch gelatinization rate increases. Puffed grains with an increased starch gelatinization rate can be more easily utilized by microorganisms in the rumen and can increase the rate of propionic acid production during the fermentation process.

[0095] Since propionic acid production in the rumen is associated with the hydrogen consumption pathway, an increase in the rate of propionic acid production may reduce the amount of hydrogen available for methane production by methane-producing bacteria.

[0096] Therefore, the puffing process is not merely a simple feed processing step, but a key step for reducing the methane production pathway in the rumen.

[0097] Hereinafter, the puffing treatment step of the present invention is described in more detail.

[0098] The above puffing treatment step is a step for changing the structure of starch particles within the grain and increasing the starch gelatinization rate by applying a combination of heat, pressure, and shear force to the raw grain that has undergone the moisture control step.

[0099] Specifically, in the puffing treatment step, raw grains with a moisture content adjusted to 10 to 20 weight percent can be fed into a known high-temperature and high-pressure extruder or puffer.

[0100] The above high-temperature and high-pressure extruder may include a raw material input section, a conveying screw, a heating cylinder, a compression section, a shearing section, and a discharge die.

[0101] The above raw grain moves inside the extruder by means of a conveying screw, is heated by a heating cylinder, receives pressure in the compression section, and can receive mechanical shear force in the shear section.

[0102] The puffing treatment step can be performed at a temperature of 120 to 220°C. Preferably, it can be performed at a temperature of 150 to 200°C, and more preferably at a temperature of 160 to 190°C.

[0103] When the temperature is below 120℃, the swelling and gelatinization of starch particles within the grain may not occur sufficiently, resulting in a low starch gelatinization rate. In this case, the fermentation utilization in the rumen may not be sufficiently improved, and the methane reduction effect may not be stable.

[0104] Conversely, if the temperature exceeds 220℃, some nutrients in the grain may be excessively denatured by heat, and the availability of protein may decrease or the palatability of the feed may decrease.

[0105] The above puffing treatment step can be performed under pressure conditions of 5 to 30 bar. Preferably, it can be performed under pressure conditions of 10 to 25 bar.

[0106] If the pressure is less than 5 bar, sufficient compression and shear action are not applied to the inside of the grain, so the change in the starch structure may be insufficient. Conversely, if the pressure exceeds 30 bar, the internal load of the extruder increases, and the transportability of the raw material may decrease or excessive stickiness may occur.

[0107] In the above puffing treatment step, the residence time of the raw grain may be 10 seconds to 180 seconds, and preferably 20 seconds to 90 seconds.

[0108] If the residence time is less than 10 seconds, the raw grains may not receive sufficient heat, pressure, and shear action, resulting in a low starch gelatinization rate. Conversely, if the residence time exceeds 180 seconds, the quality of the feed may deteriorate due to excessive heat treatment.

[0109] In the above puffing treatment step, the screw rotation speed of the extruder may be 100 to 600 rpm, and preferably 200 to 450 rpm.

[0110] Screw rotation speed can affect the shear force applied to the raw grain and the residence time. If the screw rotation speed is too low, the transport of the raw material may become uneven, and if the screw rotation speed is too high, the particle structure may be excessively destroyed due to excessive shearing.

[0111] In the above puffing treatment step, the temperature, pressure, residence time, and screw rotation speed can be adjusted according to the type of raw grain.

[0112] For example, corn and wheat have a high starch content, making it easy to secure a relatively high starch gelatinization rate, so they can be processed under conditions of 160–190°C and 10–25 bar.

[0113] Since barley and oats contain fibrous components, they can be processed at 150–190°C after sufficient moisture control. For sorghum, because the binding between starch particles and the protein matrix can be strong in some varieties, relatively high shear conditions or sufficient retention times may be applied.

[0114] In the above puffing treatment step, starch particles contained in the raw grain are swollen by moisture, heat, and pressure, the crystal structure of the starch is reduced, and the starch chains are partially unraveled and converted into a state that is easy to utilize by digestive enzymes and rumen microorganisms.

[0115] Accordingly, the puffed grains described above have an increased starch gelatinization rate compared to non-puffed grains, and their fermentation availability in the rumen can be improved.

[0116] It is preferable that the above puffing treatment step be performed so that the starch gelatinization rate of the feed composition is included in the range of 80 to 98% in the subsequent quality control step.

[0117] If the starch gelatinization rate is less than 80%, the effect of increasing the rate of propionic acid production in the rumen may not be sufficient, and the effect of reducing the methane production pathway may be lower.

[0118] If the starch gelatinization rate exceeds 98%, some nutrients in the feed may be damaged by excessive heat treatment, or pellet moldability and palatability may be reduced.

[0119] The puffed grains produced by the above puffing treatment step can increase the rate of propionic acid production when fermented in the rumen.

[0120] Since the propionic acid production pathway in the rumen tends to consume hydrogen, an increase in the propionic acid production rate may reduce the amount of hydrogen available for methane production by methane-producing bacteria.

[0121] Accordingly, the activity of methane-producing bacteria or the methane production pathway is reduced, and methane emissions from ruminants may be reduced compared to standard feed.

[0122] That is, the puffing treatment step of the present invention is not merely a processing step that expands the volume of grains, but a key methane reduction treatment step for controlling the starch gelatinization rate of grains to regulate the rumen fermentation pathway and reduce methane emissions.

[0123] In addition, the above puffing treatment step can be linked to a subsequent expansion formation step by instantaneous depressurization. When grains that were in a high temperature and high pressure state inside the extruder are released under atmospheric pressure or relatively low pressure conditions as they pass through the discharge die, the moisture inside the grains rapidly expands, and a porous structure can be formed.

[0124] This porous structure can increase the surface area of ​​the grains and the contact area with microorganisms and digestive fluids in the rumen, thereby improving digestion utilization.

[0125] Therefore, the puffing treatment step and the expansion formation step are interconnected to achieve the effects of increasing starch gelatinization rate, forming a porous structure, improving digestion utilization rate, and reducing methane.

[0126] 5. Expansion formation step (S5)

[0127] In the present invention, the puffed grain can be subjected to instantaneous depressurization as it passes through the extruder outlet. During the instantaneous depressurization process, the moisture inside the grain rapidly expands, and accordingly, a porous structure can be formed inside and on the surface of the grain.

[0128] The porous structure can increase the surface area of ​​the grain and the contact area with microorganisms and digestive fluids in the rumen. Accordingly, the digestibility of puffed grain can be improved, and the fermentation efficiency in the rumen can be enhanced.

[0129] Below, the expansion formation step (S5) of the present invention is described in more detail.

[0130] The above expansion formation step is a step to improve the digestive utilization rate of ruminants by forming a porous structure inside the grain through instantaneous depressurization of the grain that has undergone the expansion treatment step.

[0131] Specifically, during the puffing process, the raw grain is moved inside the extruder under high temperature and high pressure conditions. At this time, moisture may exist inside the grain in a steam state or a high-temperature moisture state, and the starch particles may be swollen and partially gelatinized by heat and pressure. The extruder may be a known extruder for performing puffing treatment.

[0132] In the above expansion and formation step, as the grain in the high-temperature and high-pressure state passes through the discharge die of the extruder and is discharged to the outside, the pressure is instantaneously reduced, resulting in instantaneous depressurization.

[0133] For example, a pressure state of 5 to 30 bar may be maintained inside the extruder, but immediately after discharge, a low pressure state of atmospheric pressure or equivalent may be formed.

[0134] As a result, the moisture present inside the grain rapidly expands and evaporates, and numerous micropores can be formed inside the grain.

[0135] The above porous structure may include open pores connecting the inside and outside of the grain or closed pores formed inside the grain.

[0136] In addition, the degree of formation of the above porous structure may vary depending on the type of grain, moisture content, puffing temperature, pressure, and residence time.

[0137] The porous structure formed by the above expansion formation step can increase the specific surface area of ​​the grain.

[0138] Accordingly, microorganisms and digestive enzymes within the rumen can penetrate more easily into the grain, and the surface area of ​​contact with starch components within the grain can be increased. In addition, the porous structure can increase the attachment surface area of ​​microorganisms within the rumen, thereby improving the efficiency of microbial fermentation.

[0139] The porous structure formed by the above expansion formation step facilitates particle crushing in the subsequent grinding step and can also contribute to securing a uniform particle size.

[0140] In addition, the above porous structure can improve binding properties during the pelletizing stage and enable uniform molding inside the pellet.

[0141] In the present invention, the expansion forming step is not merely a step for increasing the volume of the grain, but a step for forming a porous structure inside the grain to improve starch availability, rumen fermentation efficiency, and digestion utilization rate.

[0142] In particular, the puffed grain with the above-mentioned porous structure can further activate the propionic acid production pathway in the rumen, and thereby reduce the amount of hydrogen available to methane-producing bacteria, which can contribute to reducing the methane production pathway.

[0143] Therefore, the above-mentioned expansion formation step can function as a key step to simultaneously achieve increased starch gelatinization rate, improved digestion utilization rate, improved rumen fermentation, and methane reduction effects by working together with the puffing treatment step.

[0144] The porosity of the porous structure formed by the above expansion forming step may be 10 to 70%, and preferably 20 to 50%.

[0145] In this specification, "instant depressurization" refers to a phenomenon in which the pressure acting on raw grains decreases rapidly within a short period of time as raw grains, which were in a high-temperature and high-pressure state during the puffing process, are discharged into an external atmospheric pressure environment.

[0146] Specifically, in the puffing treatment step, the raw grain may be exposed to a temperature of 120 to 220°C and a pressure of 5 to 30 bar inside the extruder, and moisture may exist inside the raw grain in a liquid or superheated water state.

[0147] Subsequently, when the above raw grain passes through the extruder outlet and is discharged into an external atmospheric pressure environment, the pressure acting on the raw grain decreases rapidly.

[0148] In this specification, instantaneous depressurization typically means transitioning from a pressure state of 5 to 30 bar to an atmospheric pressure or equivalent pressure state within a short period of time.

[0149] During the above instantaneous depressurization process, the moisture present inside the raw grain can rapidly expand and be converted into water vapor, and accordingly, the internal structure of the raw grain may expand.

[0150] In addition, a number of micropores can be formed inside the grain by instantaneous depressurization, and accordingly, a porous structure of the puffed grain can be formed.

[0151] The above porous structure can increase the specific surface area of ​​the grain and allow microorganisms and digestive fluids in the rumen to penetrate more easily into the grain.

[0152] In addition, the porous structure formed by instantaneous depressurization can improve starch availability and increase the decomposition efficiency of starchy substrates during the subsequent rumen fermentation process.

[0153] In the present invention, instantaneous depressurization does not mean a simple pressure reduction phenomenon, but may mean a puffing mechanism to form a porous structure by inducing rapid vaporization and volume expansion of moisture inside the raw grain.

[0154] Therefore, in the present invention, instantaneous depressurization can function as a key process for feed production that exhibits effects such as improving the starch gelatinization rate of puffed grains, forming a porous structure, improving digestibility, and reducing methane.

[0155] 6. Drying step (S6)

[0156] In the drying step (S6) of the present invention, the puffed grain that has undergone the expansion formation step is dried to stabilize the moisture content. After drying, the moisture content of the puffed grain may preferably be 8 to 14 weight%.

[0157] If the moisture content is excessively high, mold growth or quality degradation may occur during storage, and if the moisture content is excessively low, excessive fine powder may be generated during the grinding process.

[0158] The drying step of the present invention is described in more detail below.

[0159] The above drying step (S6) is a step to stabilize the moisture content of puffed grains that have undergone the expansion forming step, thereby ensuring storage stability, grindability, and moldability for the subsequent pelletizing process.

[0160] Specifically, puffed grains that have undergone puffing treatment and expansion formation steps may be in a state where a porous structure is formed as the internal moisture rapidly expands.

[0161] However, grains immediately after puffing may contain residual moisture inside and on the surface, and the moisture distribution may be uneven due to residual heat.

[0162] Therefore, in the above drying step, moisture present inside and outside the puffed grain is removed or homogenized so that the final moisture content of the puffed grain is adjusted to a range suitable for storage and feed processing.

[0163] In the drying step above, the moisture content of the puffed grain can be controlled to 8 to 14 weight%, and preferably to 9 to 12 weight%.

[0164] If the moisture content is less than 8% by weight, the puffed grain may become excessively dry, resulting in excessive fine powder during the grinding stage and reduced binding ability during the pelletizing stage.

[0165] Conversely, if the moisture content exceeds 14% by weight, mold growth, microbial proliferation, rancidity, or quality degradation may occur during storage, and particle clumping may occur during the subsequent grinding stage.

[0166] The above drying step can be performed by hot air drying, low-temperature drying, fluidized bed drying, rotary drying, conveyor drying, or a combination thereof.

[0167] For example, puffed grains can be dried by hot air at 40 to 90°C, and preferably at a temperature range of 50 to 70°C. If the drying temperature is below 40°C, the drying time may be excessively long, which may reduce productivity and increase the possibility of microbial contamination during drying.

[0168] If the drying temperature exceeds 90℃, the surface of the already puffed grain may become excessively hardened, the porous structure may partially shrink, or the nutrients may be thermally denatured.

[0169] In the above drying step, it is desirable to control the drying speed so that the porous structure of the puffed grain is maintained. That is, if only the surface moisture of the puffed grain is rapidly removed, surface hardening may occur, and the release of internal moisture may be delayed, resulting in a difference in moisture between the inside and the outside.

[0170] Therefore, the drying step can be performed initially at a relatively low temperature or gentle wind speed, and then adjusted by controlling the temperature or wind speed as moisture removal proceeds.

[0171] In the above drying step, the wind speed of the hot air may be 0.5 to 5 m / s, and preferably 1 to 3 m / s. If the wind speed is less than 0.5 m / s, the removal of moisture from the surface of the puffed grain may not be sufficient, and if the wind speed exceeds 5 m / s, light puffed particles may be scattered or surface drying may proceed excessively.

[0172] The time of the drying step can be adjusted according to the initial moisture content, particle size, drying temperature, and wind speed of the puffed grain, for example, from 10 minutes to 6 hours, and preferably from 30 minutes to 3 hours.

[0173] In the drying step above, the moisture content of the puffed grain can be monitored using a moisture sensor or a weight measuring device. For example, the moisture content of the puffed grain can be measured using a near-infrared moisture sensor, a gravimetric moisture meter, or an electrical resistance moisture meter.

[0174] If the measured moisture content is higher than the target range, the drying time can be extended or the drying temperature or wind speed can be increased. If the measured moisture content is lower than the target range, the drying temperature or drying time can be reduced to prevent over-drying.

[0175] In addition, the drying step can be combined with a cooling step of the puffed grain. Since the grain immediately after puffing contains residual heat, cooling air can be supplied after drying to lower the temperature of the puffed grain to room temperature or a temperature suitable for storage.

[0176] The above cooling can be performed by supplying air at 10 to 30°C, and after cooling, the temperature of the puffed grain can be controlled to a level similar to the ambient temperature. Through the above drying and cooling process, the storage stability of the puffed grain is improved, and particle size control can be facilitated in the subsequent grinding step.

[0177] In addition, puffed grains that maintain an appropriate moisture content can improve binding properties during the subsequent pelletizing stage and reduce cracking, dust generation, and breakage of the pellets.

[0178] In the present invention, the drying step is not merely a step for removing moisture, but can function as a quality stabilization step to maintain the porous structure formed by the puffing treatment, stabilize the quality of the puffed grain with increased starch gelatinization rate, and ensure the reproducibility of the feed manufacturing process.

[0179] In particular, the drying step can contribute to stably producing a feed composition that meets a starch gelatinization rate of 80 to 98% in the subsequent quality control step by stabilizing the moisture content of the puffed grain to 8 to 14 weight%.

[0180] 7. Grinding step (S7)

[0181] In the grinding step (S7) of the present invention, dried puffed grain is ground to an appropriate particle size. The grinding particle size can be adjusted according to the type, age, feeding method, and pellet molding conditions of the ruminant. For example, the puffed grain can be ground to an average particle size in the range of 0.5 to 5 mm.

[0182] The crushed puffed grains can then be uniformly mixed with protein sources, fiber sources, vitamins, and minerals.

[0183] The grinding step of the present invention is described in more detail below.

[0184] The grinding step is a step for adjusting the particle size of the puffed grains that have undergone the drying step to a size suitable for the subsequent mixing and pelletizing steps. Specifically, the dried puffed grains may be in a state having a porous structure through the puffing treatment and expansion formation steps.

[0185] The puffed grains having the above porous structure may be easier to grind because they are relatively more brittle compared to non-puffed grains, but if they are ground too finely, the rate of fermentation in the rumen may become excessively fast or dust generation may increase during pellet production.

[0186] Therefore, in the grinding step above, it is desirable to adjust the particle size of the puffed grain to a range suitable for the digestive physiology of ruminants, rumen fermentation characteristics, and pellet moldability.

[0187] The grinding step described above can be performed by a hammer mill, a roller mill, a pin mill, a cutter mill, or a combination thereof. For example, a hammer mill can grind puffed grains by impact force, and a roller mill can grind puffed grains into relatively uniform particle sizes by compression and shear force.

[0188] In the grinding step above, the puffed grains can be ground so that their average particle size is in the range of 0.3 to 5 mm, and preferably so that it is in the range of 0.5 to 3 mm.

[0189] If the average particle size is less than 0.3 mm, the amount of fine powder increases, and the rate of starch fermentation in the rumen becomes excessively fast, which may lead to a decrease in rumen acidity or feed stability problems.

[0190] Conversely, if the average particle size exceeds 5 mm, the uniformity of mixing with protein sources, fiber sources, vitamins, and minerals may be reduced in the subsequent mixing stage, and moldability may be reduced in the pelletizing stage.

[0191] It is preferable that the above grinding step be performed so that the porous structure of the puffed grain is not completely destroyed. That is, the grinding step may be performed not by simply pulverizing the puffed grain, but by cutting or crushing it into a particle form having a porous structure to maintain the contact area with microorganisms and digestive fluids in the rumen.

[0192] The puffed grain particles produced in the above grinding step may include internal pores or surface pores, and such pore structure can increase accessibility for microorganisms in the rumen and improve starch utilization.

[0193] In addition, the grinding step may further include a particle size classification step. In the particle size classification step, granules, particles of appropriate particle size, and fine powder can be separated using a sieve separator, a vibrating screen, or an air classifier.

[0194] In the above particle size classification step, fine particles with an average particle size of less than 0.3 mm may be limited to a certain ratio or less, and coarse particles with an average particle size exceeding 5 mm may be recovered through a re-grinding process.

[0195] For example, the fine content of puffed grain particles with an average particle size of less than 0.3 mm after grinding can be controlled to be 20% by weight or less, preferably 10% by weight or less, of the total ground material.

[0196] By limiting the fine powder content, dust generation during the pelletizing process can be suppressed, and rapid starch fermentation in the rumen can be mitigated. In the grinding step, it is desirable to control the heat generated during grinding.

[0197] If excessive frictional heat is generated during grinding, the surface of the puffed grain may become excessively dry or some nutrients may be thermally denatured.

[0198] Accordingly, the crushing device may be equipped with a cooling air supply unit or a crushing chamber temperature control unit, and the internal temperature of the crushing chamber may be maintained in the range of 20 to 60°C. In the crushing step, magnetic separation or foreign matter separation processes may be additionally performed before and after crushing to prevent the mixing of metal wear pieces or foreign matter.

[0199] In addition, it is desirable that the particle size distribution of the ground puffed grain be controlled so that it can be uniformly mixed with soybean meal, DDGS, alfalfa hay powder, timothy hay powder, vitamin premix, and mineral premix in the subsequent mixing step.

[0200] In the present invention, the grinding step is not so much a step for changing the starch gelatinization rate of puffed grains, but rather a step for ensuring the mixing uniformity and feeding suitability of the feed composition while maintaining the starch gelatinization state and porous structure formed by the puffing treatment.

[0201] In addition, the grinding step can play a role in improving the reproducibility of measuring the starch gelatinization rate in a subsequent quality control step. That is, if the particle size is excessively non-uniform, the variation between samples may increase when measuring the starch gelatinization rate; however, if the particle size distribution of puffed grains is controlled to a certain range by the grinding step according to the present invention, the reliability of measuring the starch gelatinization rate and the accuracy of quality control can be improved.

[0202] Therefore, the grinding step can function as an important process for simultaneously ensuring digestibility of puffed grains, rumen fermentation stability, mixing uniformity, pellet moldability, and quality control reproducibility in the production of methane-reducing feed for ruminants.

[0203] 8. Mixing step (S8)

[0204] In one embodiment of the mixing step (S8) of the present invention, 20 to 70 weight% of crushed puffed grain, 10 to 30 weight% of a protein source, 5 to 20 weight% of a fiber source, 0.5 to 3 weight% of a vitamin, and 0.5 to 3 weight% of a mineral may be mixed.

[0205] The above protein source may be one or more of soybean meal, rapeseed meal, cottonseed meal, DDGS, and sorghum gluten feed. Soybean meal has a high crude protein content and can be used as a major protein source for ruminant feed. DDGS (Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles) is a byproduct of corn fermentation or a dried byproduct (distillers' dried grains) remaining after bioethanol production; it can supply both protein and energy and is suitable as a protein source for ruminant feed.

[0206] The above fiber source may be one or more of alfalfa hay, timothy hay, ryegrass hay, rice straw, oat straw, and brewers' spent grain.

[0207] Alfalfa hay can provide both protein and effective fiber, while timothy hay can contribute to rumen motility and the maintenance of fiber balance. Both the alfalfa hay and timothy hay are known and commercially available.

[0208] The above vitamin premix may consist of one or more of vitamin A, vitamin D3, vitamin E, and the B vitamin group.

[0209] The above mineral premix may consist of one or more of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, and cobalt.

[0210] Cobalt may be involved in the synthesis of vitamin B12 by rumen microorganisms, and magnesium and calcium may contribute to maintaining metabolic balance in ruminants.

[0211] In the above mixing step, one or more of yucca extract and quillaja extract may be further mixed together with the ground puffed grains, protein source, fiber, vitamins and minerals.

[0212] The above yucca extract may be a plant extract derived from Yucca schidigera and may contain saponin components.

[0213] The above Quillaja extract may be a plant extract derived from Quillaja saponaria and may contain saponin components.

[0214] The above yucca extract or quillaja extract may be included in an amount of 0.01 to 3% by weight based on the total weight of the feed, and preferably in an amount of 0.05 to 1% by weight.

[0215] If the above content is less than 0.01% by weight, the effect of regulating fermentation in the rumen or reducing the methane production pathway may not be sufficient.

[0216] Conversely, if the above content exceeds 3% by weight, the palatability of the feed may decrease, or the balance of rumen fermentation may be impaired due to an excessive supply of plant-based saponin components.

[0217] The saponin components contained in the above yucca extract and quillaja extract can regulate the activity of protozoa in the rumen.

[0218] Since some protozoa in the rumen can act symbiotically with methanogenic bacteria, regulating the activity of protozoa can also reduce the methane production pathway of methanogenic bacteria.

[0219] In addition, saponin components can regulate the rumen fermentation environment to increase the rate of propionic acid production and contribute to reducing the flow of hydrogen used for methane production.

[0220] Therefore, in the present invention, the yucca extract or quillaja extract works together with the effect of increasing the starch gelatinization rate by puffed grains to more effectively reduce the methane production pathway in the rumen.

[0221] That is, the present invention can further reduce methane emissions compared to standard feed by increasing the propionic acid production rate by puffed grains and controlling the fermentation environment related to protozoa and methane-producing bacteria in the rumen by yucca extract or quillaja extract.

[0222] The above yucca extract or quillaja extract may be mixed in the form of powder, granules, liquid, or supported on an adsorption carrier.

[0223] For example, yucca extract or quillaja extract can be added during the mixing step after being adsorbed onto rice bran, puffed grain powder, soybean meal powder, or a mineral carrier.

[0224] Accordingly, a small amount of plant extract can be uniformly dispersed within the feed composition and can avoid concentration in specific areas even during the pelletizing stage.

[0225] In the above mixing step, first, crushed puffed grains, protein sources, and fibers are mixed first, then functional additives including yucca extract or quillaja extract are mixed second, and then vitamin and mineral premixes are mixed third.

[0226] This sequential mixing method can improve the dispersion uniformity of yucca extract or quillaja extract added in small amounts.

[0227] The above yucca extract and quillaja extract may not be limited to essential components in the present invention, but may be included as optional functional ingredients to enhance the methane reduction effect.

[0228] In the present invention, the plant saponin-containing extract is distinguished from enzyme and sugar compositions for intestinal sterilization or improvement of digestive function, such as glucose oxidase, bromelain, or glucose.

[0229] In the present invention, yucca extract and quillaja extract are ingredients used for the purpose of regulating the rumen fermentation pathway and reducing the methane production pathway in ruminants.

[0230] Therefore, the above plant saponin-containing extract can contribute to reducing methane emissions and calculating carbon reductions in ruminants when combined with puffed grain-based starch gelatinization rate control technology.

[0231] As a preferred embodiment, in the mixing step of the present invention, the mixture may be prepared by mixing 60% by weight of ground puffed grain, 15% by weight of soybean meal, 5% by weight of DDGS (Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles), 5% by weight of alfalfa hay powder, 5% by weight of timothy hay powder, 3% by weight of vitamin premix, 2% by weight of mineral premix, 3% by weight of yucca extract, and 2% by weight of quillaja extract.

[0232] By combining puffed grains, protein sources, fiber sources, vitamins, and minerals in this way, the present invention can provide a feed composition that is not a simple puffed grain feed alone, but one that can exhibit a methane reduction effect while maintaining the nutritional balance of ruminants.

[0233] 9. Pelletization step (S9)

[0234] In the pelletizing step (S9) of the present invention, the mixture prepared in the mixing step is molded into a pellet or crumble form. Pelleting can improve the convenience of feeding the feed, reduce the separation phenomenon between raw material components, and increase the uniformity of intake by ruminants.

[0235] The pellet molding temperature can be controlled within a range that ensures proper binding while preventing thermal denaturation of the feed ingredients.

[0236] The pelletizing step of the present invention is described in more detail below.

[0237] The above pelletizing step is a step for molding the feed mixture, which has undergone the mixing step, into a pellet or crumble form suitable for feeding ruminants.

[0238] Specifically, the mixture prepared in the mixing step may include ground puffed grains, a protein source, a fiber source, vitamins, and minerals.

[0239] The above mixture may be fed as is in powder form, but feed in powder form may experience separation of raw material components during transportation and storage, generate dust during the feeding process, and reduce the uniformity of intake by ruminants.

[0240] Therefore, in the present invention, the handling, shelf life, feedingability, and uniformity of intake of the feed can be improved by molding the mixture into a pellet or crumble form. The pelletizing step can be performed by feeding the mixture into a pellet molding machine and extruding it into pellets of a certain shape using a compression roller and a die.

[0241] The above pellet molding machine may be a flat die type, a ring die type, or a screw extrusion type pellet molding machine. In the pelletizing step, the moisture content of the mixture, molding temperature, compression pressure, die hole diameter, and molding speed may be controlled.

[0242] In the above pelletizing step, the moisture content of the mixture can be controlled to 10 to 18 weight%, and preferably to 12 to 16 weight%.

[0243] If the moisture content of the mixture is less than 10% by weight, the binding force may be insufficient during pellet molding, which may increase cracking, breakage, or dust generation of the pellets. Conversely, if the moisture content of the mixture exceeds 18% by weight, the drying time after pellet molding increases, and mold growth or quality degradation may occur during storage.

[0244] In the above pelletizing step, a small amount of steam or hot water may be supplied to the mixture as needed to improve moldability. However, it is preferable that the supply of steam or hot water be carried out within a range where the starch gelatinization rate of the puffed grain does not change excessively or the vitamin components are not thermally denatured.

[0245] The molding temperature of the above pelletizing step may be 40 to 90°C, and preferably 50 to 75°C. If the molding temperature is less than 40°C, the binding properties of the mixture may not be sufficient, and the pellet strength may be formed low.

[0246] Conversely, if the molding temperature exceeds 90°C, vitamins, some amino acids, or heat-sensitive nutrients may be damaged, and the structure of the already puffed grain may be unnecessarily re-deformed. In the pelletizing step, the diameter of the die hole may be 2 to 12 mm, and preferably 3 to 8 mm.

[0247] The die hole diameter can be selected according to the type, age, and feeding method of the ruminant being fed. For example, feed for calves or young ruminants can be formed into pellets with a relatively small diameter, while feed for adult cattle or dairy cows can be formed into pellets with a relatively large diameter.

[0248] In the above pelletizing step, the length of the pellet may be 3 to 30 mm, and preferably 5 to 20 mm. If the pellet length is excessively short, dust generation may increase, and if the pellet length is excessively long, convenience of feeding or consumption may decrease.

[0249] In the above pelletizing step, it is desirable to control the compression pressure so that the porous structure of the puffed grain is not completely compressed and destroyed. That is, the pelletizing step can be performed to stably bind the mixture while maintaining the pore structure inside or on the surface of the puffed grain to a certain extent.

[0250] When the above pore structure is maintained, microorganisms and digestive fluids in the rumen can easily access the puffed grain particles inside the pellet, and the starch availability of the puffed grain can be maintained.

[0251] In the above pelletizing step, the compression pressure may be 50 to 300 kgf / cm², and preferably 80 to 200 kgf / cm².

[0252] If the compression pressure is less than 50 kgf / cm², the pellet strength may be low and the breakage rate may increase. Conversely, if the compression pressure exceeds 300 kgf / cm², the pellets may become excessively dense, which may reduce moisture penetration and microbial accessibility within the rumen.

[0253] After the above pelletizing step, the pellets can be cooled or dried. Since the pellets immediately after pelletizing may contain molding heat and residual moisture, cooling air can be supplied to lower the temperature of the pellets to near room temperature and adjust the final moisture content to a range suitable for storage.

[0254] The moisture content of the final pellet after the above pelletization may be 8 to 14 weight%, preferably 9 to 12 weight%. If the final moisture content is less than 8 weight%, the pellet may become excessively dry, which may increase breakage or dust generation, and if it exceeds 14 weight%, the possibility of microbial growth or mold growth during storage may increase.

[0255] The above pelletizing step may further include a crumbling step. The crumbling step may be a step of crushing the manufactured pellets into a crumbling form of a certain size using a roller or a cutter.

[0256] The above crumble form may be suitable for young ruminants or specific feeding systems and can improve the convenience of feed intake. In the above pelletizing step, the durability, dust generation rate, and compositional uniformity of the pellets can be verified.

[0257] For example, the pellet durability index (PDI) can be adjusted to be 85% or higher, preferably 90% or higher. If pellet durability is low, pellets may break during transportation and feeding, causing the raw material components to separate and reducing feeding uniformity.

[0258] In addition, during the pelletizing step, it is possible to verify whether the vitamin and mineral premix is ​​uniformly distributed within the pellet. This is intended to ensure that ruminants uniformly consume puffed grains, protein sources, fiber sources, vitamins, and minerals when consuming the feed.

[0259] In the present invention, the pelletizing step is not merely a step of compressing a feed mixture into a certain shape, but can function as a feed molding stabilization step that produces a puffed grain-based feed composition having a methane reduction function in a stable feeding form and maintains the starch gelatinization rate and porous structure function of the puffed grain.

[0260] In addition, the above pelletizing step can be linked to a subsequent quality control step.

[0261] That is, the starch gelatinization rate can be measured on the pellets produced after pelletization to determine whether the starch gelatinization rate falls within the range of 80 to 98%.

[0262] Accordingly, it is possible to verify whether the functionality of the puffed grain is maintained during the pelletizing process, and to stably ensure the quality as a feed for methane reduction.

[0263] 10. Quality Control Step (S10)

[0264] In the quality control step (S10) of the present invention, it is checked whether the starch gelatinization rate of the manufactured feed composition or pellet falls within the range of 80 to 98%.

[0265] Starch gelatinization rate can be measured by enzymatic hydrolysis, polarized light microscopy analysis, DSC analysis, or known starch gelatinization rate measurement methods.

[0266] If the starch gelatinization rate is less than 80%, starch availability in the rumen may not be sufficiently improved, and the effect of increasing the propionic acid production rate may be reduced.

[0267] If the starch gelatinization rate exceeds 98%, excessive heat treatment may result in the denaturation of some nutrients or a decrease in feed quality.

[0268] Therefore, by selecting only feed compositions with a starch gelatinization rate in the range of 80 to 98% as feed for methane reduction, the reproducibility of the methane reduction effect and uniformity of quality can be ensured.

[0269] The quality control steps of the present invention are described in more detail below.

[0270] The quality control step of the present invention is a step for verifying whether a feed composition manufactured through a pelletizing step satisfies the quality standards required for a methane-reducing feed, and for selecting only feed compositions that satisfy the standards as methane-reducing feed.

[0271] In the present invention, the quality control step is not a simple general feed quality inspection step, but is a step performed on the premise that the starch gelatinization rate increased by puffing treatment is a quality indicator directly related to changes in the fermentation pathway in the rumen and methane reduction effects.

[0272] Specifically, in the quality control step, a representative sample may be taken from the manufactured feed composition or pellet. The representative sample may be taken per manufacturing batch and may be a composite sample formed by taking multiple samples from the top, middle, and bottom, or from different locations within a single manufacturing batch and mixing them.

[0273] By collecting samples from multiple locations in this way, measurement errors caused by variations in the distribution of puffed grains in the feed composition, non-uniformity of components during the pelletizing process, or variations in moisture can be reduced.

[0274] In the above quality control step, the starch gelatinization rate of the representative sample is measured. The starch gelatinization rate can be measured by enzymatic hydrolysis, polarized light microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), rapid variability analysis (RVA), or a combination thereof.

[0275] For example, when using an enzymatic hydrolysis method, the starch gelatinization rate can be calculated by measuring the degree to which gelatinized starch in the sample is degraded by amylase or glucoamylase.

[0276] When using polarized light microscopy analysis, the degree of starch gelatinization can be evaluated by observing the extent of the loss of birefringence in starch particles. When using differential scanning calorimetry, the degree of gelatinization relative to ungelatinized starch can be calculated by measuring the residual gelatinization enthalpy of the starch.

[0277] The above starch gelatinization rate can be calculated in the following manner.

[0278] Starch Gelatinization Rate (%) = [(Reference value for gelatinization of untreated raw grain - Measured value for residual non-gelatinized starch of puffed feed) / Reference value for gelatinization of untreated raw grain] × 100

[0279] However, the above calculation formula is merely an example and can be calculated using a known method for measuring starch gelatinization rate.

[0280] In the above quality control step, it is checked whether the measured starch gelatinization rate falls within the range of 80 to 98%. If the measured starch gelatinization rate is less than 80%, it can be determined that the starch in the grain has not been sufficiently gelatinized; in this case, starch availability in the rumen may not be sufficiently improved, and the effect of increasing the propionic acid production rate and reducing the methane production pathway may be reduced.

[0281] Therefore, feed compositions with a starch gelatinization rate of less than 80% may not be selected as methane-reducing feed, or may be subjected to re-puffing treatment, re-mixing, or classified as general feed of a separate grade.

[0282] Conversely, if the measured starch gelatinization rate exceeds 98%, excessive heat treatment or excessive pressure treatment may result in thermal denaturation of some nutrients, reduced feed palatability, or reduced pellet physical properties.

[0283] Therefore, feed compositions with a starch gelatinization rate exceeding 98% may also not be selected as methane-reducing feed, or a quality re-inspection may be performed. In the above quality control step, only feed compositions with a starch gelatinization rate in the range of 80 to 98% are selected as methane-reducing feed.

[0284] The above range of starch gelatinization rate is designed to improve starch availability within the rumen while preventing damage to nutrients caused by excessive heat treatment.

[0285] In the present invention, a feed having a starch gelatinization rate within the above range can be determined to be a feed suitable for reducing the methane production pathway by increasing the rate of propionic acid production in the rumen and reducing the amount of hydrogen available to methane-producing bacteria.

[0286] In addition, in the above quality control step, one or more of the following can be additionally verified in addition to the starch gelatinization rate: moisture content, pellet durability, particle size distribution, crude protein content, crude fiber content, ash content, and vitamin and mineral content.

[0287] For example, it is preferable that the final moisture content of the feed composition be in the range of 8 to 14 weight percent. If the final moisture content is less than 8 weight percent, pellet breakage and dust generation may increase, and if it exceeds 14 weight percent, the possibility of mold growth or microbial proliferation during storage may increase.

[0288] In addition, the pellet durability index (PDI) may be 85% or higher, preferably 90% or higher. If the pellet durability is low, the feed may break during transportation and feeding, causing the raw material components to separate and reducing the uniformity of intake by ruminants.

[0289] In the above quality control step, quality data for each manufacturing batch may be recorded. The quality data may include the type of raw grain, moisture control conditions, puffing treatment temperature, puffing treatment pressure, drying conditions, grinding particle size, pellet molding conditions, starch gelatinization rate, final moisture content, and sorting results.

[0290] This quality data can be used as feed quality verification data in subsequent carbon emission rights management methods. That is, when calculating methane reduction amounts or generating reduction data using the MRV method, it can be used as basic data to prove that the fed feed was actually a methane-reducing feed with a starch gelatinization rate in the range of 80 to 98%.

[0291] Therefore, the above quality control step can function as a final quality verification step of the feed manufacturing method, and at the same time, as a feed quality verification step to ensure the reliability of reduction data required in the carbon emission rights management method.

[0292] According to the present invention, the reproducibility and verifiability of the methane reduction effect can be improved by not uniformly considering all manufactured feeds as methane-reducing feeds, but by selecting them based on an objective quality indicator called starch gelatinization rate.

[0293] In addition, since only feed selected by the above quality control step is fed to ruminants and the carbon reduction amount can be calculated based on the feeding data, the reliability of the carbon reduction amount calculation and the possibility of verifying MRV can be improved.

[0294] 11. Methane Reduction Mechanism

[0295] During the fermentation process in the rumen, carbohydrates are broken down to produce volatile fatty acids such as acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid. Among these, hydrogen can be generated in the acetic acid production pathway, and methanogenic bacteria can produce methane using hydrogen and carbon dioxide.

[0296] On the other hand, since the propionic acid production pathway tends to consume hydrogen, an increase in the propionic acid production rate reduces the hydrogen available to methane-producing bacteria.

[0297] The present invention can induce the fermentation pathway in the rumen in the direction of propionic acid production by using puffed grains with a high starch gelatinization rate of raw grains.

[0298] As a result, the hydrogen utilization pathway of methane-producing bacteria is reduced, and methane emissions can be reduced compared to standard feed.

[0299] This is explained in more detail below.

[0300] The methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains according to the present invention can reduce the amount of intestinal fermented methane emitted by ruminants by increasing the starch gelatinization rate through puffing treatment of raw grains and thereby regulating the fermentation pathway in the rumen.

[0301] Ruminants break down ingested feed through microbial fermentation within the rumen. In the rumen, carbohydrates, proteins, and fiber are broken down by microorganisms, which can result in the production of volatile fatty acids such as acetic acid, propionic acid, and butyric acid.

[0302] The above volatile fatty acids can be used as a major energy source for ruminants. However, hydrogen and carbon dioxide may be produced together during the rumen fermentation process, and methane-producing bacteria can produce methane using the hydrogen and carbon dioxide.

[0303] Generally, methane production in the rumen can be viewed as one of the pathways for processing fermentation byproducts to prevent hydrogen accumulation. In other words, methane can be generated as hydrogen produced during rumen fermentation is consumed by methane-producing bacteria.

[0304] Therefore, to reduce methane emissions in the rumen, it is important to decrease the amount of hydrogen available to methane-producing bacteria or to induce hydrogen to be consumed through fermentation pathways other than the methane production pathway.

[0305] In the present invention, raw grains are puffed to increase the starch gelatinization rate to a range of 80 to 98%. Puffed grains with an increased starch gelatinization rate can be in a state that is easily utilized by microorganisms in the rumen compared to non-puffed grains.

[0306] During the puffing process, starch particles in the grain swell due to moisture, heat, and pressure, the crystal structure of the starch decreases, and the starch chains can be partially unraveled. As a result, the puffed grain can be fermented more quickly and uniformly in the rumen.

[0307] When the above-mentioned puffed grain is fermented in the rumen, the availability of starchy substrates increases, which can promote the propionic acid production pathway. Since the propionic acid production pathway tends to consume hydrogen, an increase in the propionic acid production rate may reduce the amount of hydrogen available to methane-producing bacteria.

[0308] That is, in the present invention, the composition of fermented acids in the rumen can be changed by feeding puffed grains with an increased starch gelatinization rate. Specifically, the production rate of propionic acid can be increased compared to an acetic acid-centered fermentation pathway, and accordingly, the ratio of propionic acid to acetic acid can be improved.

[0309] While the acetic acid pathway can generate hydrogen relatively, the propionic acid pathway can act to consume hydrogen or reduce hydrogen accumulation. Therefore, an increase in the rate of propionic acid production leads to a decrease in hydrogen partial pressure within the rumen, which may reduce the utilization of methane-producing substrates by methane-producing bacteria.

[0310] Accordingly, the methane production pathway of methane-producing bacteria may be reduced, and methane emissions from ruminants may be lowered compared to when standard feed is provided.

[0311] In addition, the puffed grain according to the present invention may have a porous structure through the expansion formation step. The porous structure increases the surface area of ​​the puffed grain and can make it easier for microorganisms in the rumen and fermentation liquid to access the inside of the grain.

[0312] This porous structure can contribute to increasing starch availability, improving fermentation efficiency in the rumen, and inducing starchy substrates to be utilized in the direction of propionic acid production.

[0313] In addition, the present invention does not stop at simply puffing grains, but also verifies in the quality control stage whether the starch gelatinization rate of the feed composition falls within the range of 80 to 98%. By using the starch gelatinization rate as a quality control indicator in this way, only feed capable of exhibiting a methane reduction effect can be selected.

[0314] If the starch gelatinization rate is less than 80%, the starch utilization in the grain may not be sufficiently improved, and the effect of increasing the propionic acid production rate may be reduced. In this case, the effect of reducing the methane production pathway may also not be sufficiently manifested.

[0315] Conversely, if the starch gelatinization rate exceeds 98%, damage to nutrients, reduced feed palatability, or reduced pellet physical properties may occur due to excessive heat treatment. Therefore, in the present invention, it is desirable to manage the starch gelatinization rate within the range of 80 to 98%.

[0316] The feed according to the present invention may include not only puffed grains but also a protein source, a fiber source, vitamins, and minerals. The protein source may provide a nitrogen source necessary for the growth and maintenance of productivity of ruminants, and the fiber source may contribute to the maintenance of rumen motility and fermentation stability.

[0317] In particular, fiber sources can suppress a rapid decrease in pH within the rumen and contribute to maintaining a stable fermentation environment. Accordingly, even if the starch availability of puffed grains increases, the balance of fermentation within the rumen can be maintained.

[0318] In addition, vitamins and minerals may be necessary for the metabolic activity of rumen microorganisms and for maintaining the physiological functions of ruminants. For example, some minerals may be involved in microbial enzyme activity and fermentation metabolism, and may contribute to maintaining fermentation efficiency within the rumen.

[0319] Therefore, the present invention can achieve a methane reduction effect while maintaining the nutritional balance of ruminants through a combination of puffed grains, protein sources, fiber sources, vitamins, and minerals, rather than simply increasing the usability of starchy grains.

[0320] Furthermore, the methane reduction effect generated in the present invention can be linked to a subsequent carbon emission rights management method. That is, feed amount data, intake data, body weight data, or productivity data of ruminants fed the above feed can be collected, and methane emissions or methane reduction amounts can be calculated using this data.

[0321] The calculated methane reduction amount can be converted into a carbon dioxide equivalent by applying the global warming potential of methane, and can be generated as reduction data verifiable through the MRV method.

[0322] Therefore, the methane reduction mechanism of the present invention is not limited to the physiological and fermentation effects of the feed composition itself, but can be extended to a data-based reduction calculation system for carbon-neutral livestock operations, low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction projects, and carbon credit registration.

[0323] Ultimately, the present invention has technical significance in that it applies puffed grains, in which the starch gelatinization rate is controlled by puffing treatment, to feed for ruminants, thereby inducing an increase in the production rate of propionic acid in the rumen and a decrease in the methane production pathway, and the result can be calculated as a carbon reduction amount.

[0324] 12. Puffed Grain-Based Methane-Reducing Feed for Ruminants

[0325] The methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grain according to the present invention is a feed produced by the above manufacturing method and may include puffed grain, a protein source, fiber, vitamins and minerals, etc.

[0326] Specifically, the feed may contain 20 to 70 weight% puffed grain, 10 to 30 weight% protein source, 5 to 20 weight% fiber, and 1 to 5 weight% vitamins and minerals.

[0327] In addition, as one embodiment, it may further include yucca extract and quillai extract.

[0328] The above puffed grain may be produced by puffing one or more of corn, barley, wheat, sorghum, and oats. The above puffed grain may be produced through moisture control, high-temperature and high-pressure puffing treatment, expansion formation by instantaneous reduced pressure, drying, and grinding processes, and the starch gelatinization rate may be in the range of 80 to 98%.

[0329] The content of the puffed grain may be 20 to 70% by weight based on the total weight of the feed. If the content of the puffed grain is less than 20% by weight, the proportion of starch-gelatinized grain in the feed is low, so the effect of increasing the rate of propionic acid production in the rumen may not be sufficient, and the methane reduction effect may be reduced.

[0330] Conversely, if the content of puffed grains exceeds 70% by weight, the proportion of starchy ingredients in the feed may become excessively high, and the rate of fermentation in the rumen may become excessively fast, leading to a decrease in rumen acidity or an imbalance in nutritional balance.

[0331] Accordingly, it is preferable that the puffed grain be included in a range of 20 to 70 weight percent.

[0332] The starch gelatinization rate of the above puffed grain may be 80 to 98%. If the starch gelatinization rate is less than 80%, the crystallinity of the starch particles is not sufficiently reduced, so the starch utilization by microorganisms in the rumen may not be sufficiently improved.

[0333] In this case, the effect of increasing the rate of propionic acid production in the rumen may be reduced, and the effect of reducing the methane production pathway may also not be sufficient. Conversely, if the starch gelatinization rate exceeds 98%, excessive heat and pressure treatment may result in thermal denaturation of some nutrients, reduced feed palatability, reduced pellet physical properties, or reduced storage stability.

[0334] Therefore, in the present invention, by limiting the starch gelatinization rate of puffed grains to a range of 80 to 98%, it is possible to improve fermentation utilization in the rumen while maintaining the stability of feed quality.

[0335] The above protein source can function as a source of nitrogen and amino acids necessary for the growth, maintenance of body weight, milk production, or maintenance of productivity of ruminants. The above protein source may be included in an amount of 10 to 30 weight percent based on the total weight of the feed.

[0336] If the protein source content is less than 10% by weight, there may be insufficient protein supply necessary for the growth and productivity maintenance of ruminants. Conversely, if the protein source content exceeds 30% by weight, feed costs may increase, and nitrogen emissions may increase, leading to a greater environmental burden.

[0337] The above protein source may be one or more of soybean meal, rapeseed meal, cottonseed meal, DDGS, corn gluten feed, brewer's spent grain, and mixtures thereof.

[0338] Preferably, the protein source may include soybean meal and DDGS. Soybean meal has a high crude protein content and can be used as a major protein source for ruminant feed, and DDGS can complement the nutritional balance of the feed when used together with puffed grains as a source of protein and energy.

[0339] The above fiber may contribute to rumen motility, rumen behavior, saliva secretion, and rumen pH stabilization. The above fiber may be included in an amount of 5 to 20% by weight based on the total weight of the feed.

[0340] If the fiber content is less than 5% by weight, rumen motility and fermentation stability may be reduced, and the increased starch availability caused by puffed grains may increase the likelihood of causing a decrease in acidity within the rumen.

[0341] Conversely, if the fiber content exceeds 20% by weight, the energy density of the feed may decrease, and the intake or productivity of ruminants may decrease. The fiber may be one or more of alfalfa hay, timothy hay, ryegrass hay, rice straw, oat straw, brewers' spent grain, beet pulp, and mixtures thereof.

[0342] Preferably, the fiber may include alfalfa hay powder and timothy hay powder. The alfalfa hay powder may provide fiber and protein together, and the timothy hay powder may contribute to the supply of effective fiber in the rumen and the stabilization of rumen fermentation.

[0343] The above vitamins and minerals can function as micronutrients necessary for the metabolism, immunity, growth, reproduction, and maintenance of productivity of ruminants. The above vitamins and minerals may be included in an amount of 1 to 5 weight percent based on the total weight of the feed.

[0344] If the vitamin and mineral content is less than 1% by weight, there may be a shortage of micronutrients necessary for maintaining the metabolism of ruminants. Conversely, if the vitamin and mineral content exceeds 5% by weight, feed costs may increase or problems with the oversupply of specific minerals may occur.

[0345] The above vitamins may include one or more of vitamin A, vitamin D3, vitamin E, the B vitamin group, and mixtures thereof.

[0346] Vitamin A can contribute to growth and the maintenance of immune function, Vitamin D3 can be involved in calcium and phosphorus metabolism, and Vitamin E can contribute to antioxidant function.

[0347] The above minerals may include one or more of calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, zinc, copper, manganese, selenium, cobalt, and mixtures thereof. Calcium and phosphorus may be necessary for skeletal formation and metabolic functions, and magnesium may contribute to energy metabolism and the maintenance of rumen function.

[0348] Zinc, copper, manganese, and selenium may be involved in enzyme activity, immune function, and antioxidant metabolism. Since cobalt may be involved in vitamin B12 synthesis by rumen microorganisms, it is desirable to include it in feed for ruminants.

[0349] As a preferred embodiment, the methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains produced by the manufacturing method of the present invention comprises 60% by weight of puffed grains having a starch gelatinization rate of 80-98%, 15% by weight of soybean meal, 5% by weight of DDGS (Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles), 5% by weight of alfalfa hay powder, 5% by weight of timothy hay powder, 3% by weight of vitamin premix, 2% by weight of mineral premix, 3% by weight of yucca extract, and 2% by weight of quillaja extract, and can be molded into a pellet form.

[0350] The feed according to the present invention comprises 20 to 70 weight% of puffed grain, 10 to 30 weight% of protein source, 5 to 20 weight% of fiber, and 1 to 5 weight% of vitamins and minerals, thereby simultaneously achieving improved starch utilization, protein supply, stabilization of rumen fermentation, and supply of micronutrients.

[0351] In particular, since the above feed contains puffed grains with a starch gelatinization rate of 80 to 98%, the availability of starchy substrates in the rumen can be improved. Accordingly, the composition of fermented acids in the rumen changes, and the rate of propionic acid production can increase.

[0352] Since the propionic acid production pathway can act in a way that consumes hydrogen, an increase in the propionic acid production rate may reduce the amount of hydrogen available to methane-producing bacteria.

[0353] As a result, the methane production pathway of methane-producing bacteria may be reduced, and methane emissions from ruminants may be reduced compared to standard feed.

[0354] In this specification, “standard feed” may mean a general ruminant feed that does not contain puffed grain with a starch gelatinization rate of 80 to 98% according to the present invention, or contains unpuffed grain with the same composition.

[0355] The feed according to the present invention can increase the ratio of propionic acid production in the rumen and reduce the methane production pathway compared to the standard feed. However, in the present invention, "reducing the methane production pathway" is not limited to the meaning of directly killing methane-producing bacteria or having an antibacterial effect.

[0356] This may mean that feeding puffed grains with increased starch gelatinization rate changes the rumen fermentation pathway, and as the propionic acid production rate increases, the hydrogen available for methane production decreases, resulting in a decrease in methane production.

[0357] As such, unlike general feed additives intended to reduce harmful intestinal bacteria or improve digestive function, the feed according to the present invention is intended to reduce methane emissions by regulating the rumen fermentation pathway.

[0358] In addition, the feed according to the present invention may be a feed in which the starch gelatinization rate is confirmed to be in the range of 80 to 98% through not only the composition of the feed itself but also through quality control steps in the manufacturing method.

[0359] Accordingly, the feed according to the present invention may not be merely a feed containing puffed grains, but a feed for ruminants that satisfies objective quality standards such as starch gelatinization rate and ensures the reproducibility of the methane reduction effect.

[0360] The feed according to the present invention can be fed to various ruminants such as Korean native cattle, dairy cows, beef cattle, sheep, and goats. The feeding form may be pellets, crumble, powder, raw material for TMR mixing, or compound feed, and preferably, considering feeding uniformity and transportability, it may be in the form of pellets or crumble.

[0361] The feed according to the present invention may be fed as a standalone feed or mixed with general compound feed or roughage, depending on the management conditions of the ruminant. In addition, the feed according to the present invention may be managed together with feeding amount data, intake amount data, body weight data, or productivity data to quantify the methane reduction effect.

[0362] This data can be utilized as basic data for calculating methane reduction amounts and carbon dioxide equivalents in subsequent carbon emission rights management methods.

[0363] Accordingly, the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to the present invention has the nutritional function as a feed composition, the function of regulating rumen fermentation, the function of reducing methane emissions, and the function as a basic feed for calculating carbon reduction data.

[0364] 13. Carbon Emission Rights Management Method

[0365] The carbon emission rights management method of the present invention is a method for collecting data on ruminants fed the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants, calculating the amount of methane reduction and carbon reduction, and generating reduction data verifiable by the MRV method.

[0366] In the data collection stage, feed amount data, feed intake data, body weight data, or productivity data can be collected.

[0367] The above productivity data may include milk yield, milk fat content, milk protein content, or parity information for dairy cows, and may include daily weight gain, shipping weight, or rearing period information for beef cattle.

[0368] In the carbon reduction calculation stage, the methane emissions or methane reduction amount of ruminants is calculated based on the collected data.

[0369] The amount of methane reduction can be calculated as the difference between the standard methane emissions when feeding standard feed and the actual methane emissions when feeding methane-reducing feed according to the present invention. Subsequently, the amount of methane reduction can be converted into a carbon dioxide equivalent by applying the global warming potential of methane.

[0370] In the reduction data generation step, data regarding carbon reduction amounts is generated so that they can be verified using the MRV method. The reduction data may include one or more of the following: information on the feed subject, type of feed, amount of feed fed, amount of feed intake, change in body weight, productivity data, reference methane emissions, actual methane emissions, methane reduction amount, and carbon dioxide equivalent amount.

[0371] The reduction data generated in this way can be utilized as basic data for carbon-neutral livestock operations, implementation of national greenhouse gas reduction targets, low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction projects, and carbon emission allowance registration and trading.

[0372] The carbon emission rights management method of the present invention will be explained in more detail below.

[0373] The carbon emission rights management method according to the present invention is a method of feeding the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants to ruminants, calculating the methane emission amount or methane reduction amount resulting from the feeding of the feed, and generating data regarding the calculated carbon reduction amount in a form verifiable by the MRV method.

[0374] In the present invention, the carbon emission rights management method is not limited to the procedure of simply trading carbon emission rights or administratively registering them. The carbon emission rights management method in the present invention may refer to a series of data-based management methods that quantify the amount of methane reduction based on feed data, feed intake data, body weight change data, and productivity data of ruminants, convert this into a carbon dioxide equivalent, and generate verifiable reduction data.

[0375] The carbon emission rights management method according to the present invention may include a data collection step, a carbon reduction amount calculation step, and a reduction data generation step.

[0376] 1) Data collection step (S11)

[0377] The above data collection step (S11) is a step of collecting one or more of feed amount data, feed intake data, body weight gain data and productivity data for ruminants fed the above puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants.

[0378] The above feed amount data may refer to the amount of feed provided to ruminants over a certain period. The above feed amount data may be collected by individual, herd, barn, or farm.

[0379] For example, feed amount data may include daily feed amount, single feed amount, weekly feed amount, or total feed amount for the entire rearing period. The above feed amount data may be collected by a feeder, automatic feeding device, feed mixer, feed supply vehicle, weight sensor of a feed storage tank, or input data from an operator.

[0380] The above feed intake data may refer to the amount of feed actually consumed by the ruminant. The above feed intake data may be calculated by subtracting the remaining amount from the amount fed, and the remaining amount may be calculated by measuring the weight of the feed remaining in the feeder or feed trough.

[0381] Feed intake data can be used more directly to calculate actual methane emissions than feed quantity data. This is because the methane emissions of ruminants can be closely related to the actual dry matter, energy, or organic matter intake consumed.

[0382] The above weight gain data may refer to the body weight change or daily weight gain of ruminants. Weight gain data may be collected through regular weight measurements, weight measuring devices installed at the entrance of the barn, automatic weighing devices, or manual records.

[0383] In the case of beef cattle or Hanwoo, weight gain data can be utilized to evaluate the productivity effects of feed and production relative to methane emissions. The aforementioned productivity data may refer to data related to the productivity of ruminants.

[0384] For dairy cows, productivity data may include milk yield, milk fat content, milk protein content, lactose content, somatic cell count, parity information, or milking days. For beef cattle or Hanwoo, productivity data may include daily weight gain, slaughter weight, carcass weight, rearing period, or feed conversion ratio.

[0385] The above productivity data can be used to verify whether the methane reduction effect has been achieved without a decrease in the productivity of ruminants. In addition, quality data regarding the feed itself can be collected during the data collection step.

[0386] The above feed quality data may include one or more of the following: the feed manufacturing batch number, manufacturing date, type of raw grain, puffing treatment conditions, starch gelatinization rate, moisture content, pellet durability, protein content, fiber content, vitamin and mineral content.

[0387] In particular, starch gelatinization rate data can be used as key quality data to verify whether the fed feed actually corresponds to the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants of paragraph 2.

[0388] In the above data collection step, individual identification information of ruminants may be collected together. The individual identification information may include an individual number, animal species, breed, sex, age, rearing stage, rearing facility information, or farm information.

[0389] The above individual identification information can be utilized as reference data to link feed data and methane reduction data by individual or by livestock herd. The above data collection step can be performed by a manual input method, an automatic sensor method, a farm management program, a livestock data management server, or a combination thereof.

[0390] For example, feed amounts and remaining amounts may be measured by an automatic feeder, weight change data may be collected by a weight measuring device, and milk production data may be collected by a milking system. The above data may be accumulated and stored on a daily, weekly, monthly, rearing period, or carbon reduction project period basis.

[0391] In the present invention, the data collection step is not a simple specification recording step, but a step of securing source data that serves as the basis for the subsequent carbon reduction amount calculation step and the reduction data generation step for MRV verification.

[0392] Therefore, during the data collection stage, the collection date, collector, collection device, unit of measurement, and data source may be recorded together to prevent data omission, duplication, or errors.

[0393] 2) Carbon reduction amount calculation step (S12)

[0394] The above carbon reduction calculation step is a step of calculating the reference methane emissions and actual methane emissions of ruminants based on data collected in the data collection step, calculating the methane reduction amount based on the difference, and then converting it into a carbon dioxide equivalent.

[0395] The above standard methane emission may refer to the methane emission when the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to the present invention is not fed or when the existing standard feed is fed.

[0396] The above actual methane emissions may refer to methane emissions when the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to the present invention is fed. The above reference methane emissions and actual methane emissions may be calculated according to the IPCC Tier 2 methodology.

[0397] IPCC Tier 2 methodology may be a method for calculating methane emissions by reflecting livestock type, body weight, feed intake, productivity, energy requirements, and management conditions.

[0398] In the above carbon reduction calculation step, the total energy intake, dry matter intake, or feeding conditions of ruminants can be calculated using feed intake data, body weight gain data, and productivity data.

[0399] In addition, in the step of calculating the carbon reduction amount, the methane conversion factor when feeding standard feed and the methane conversion factor when feeding feed according to the present invention can be compared, or the difference in methane emissions before and after feeding can be calculated.

[0400] For example, the standard methane emissions may be calculated based on data regarding the feeding amount, intake, body weight, and productivity of the existing feed, and the actual methane emissions may be calculated based on data collected after feeding the feed in Paragraph 2.

[0401] The above methane reduction amount can be calculated by subtracting the actual methane emissions from the reference methane emissions. That is, the methane reduction amount can be calculated by the following formula.

[0402] Methane Reduction Amount = Baseline Methane Emissions - Actual Methane Emissions

[0403] If the above methane reduction amount is positive, it can be determined that the methane emission has decreased due to the feed feeding according to the present invention.

[0404] In the above carbon reduction calculation step, the calculated methane reduction amount can be converted into a carbon dioxide equivalent. The carbon dioxide equivalent can be calculated by applying the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of methane to the methane reduction amount.

[0405] For example, the carbon dioxide equivalent can be calculated by the following formula.

[0406] CO₂eq = Methane reduction amount × Methane's global warming potential

[0407] The global warming potential of the above methane can be set according to applicable national standards, international standards, or carbon reduction project standards.

[0408] In the above carbon reduction calculation step, the total carbon reduction amount at the farm or business unit level can be calculated by considering the feed period, the number of animals raised, and the reduction amount per individual.

[0409] For example, after calculating the methane reduction amount per individual, it can be aggregated according to the number of animals raised and the feeding period to calculate the methane reduction amount and carbon dioxide equivalent amount at the farm level.

[0410] In the carbon reduction calculation step described above, outlier removal or data correction may be performed. For example, if feed intake data is abnormally low or body weight data is missing, the corresponding data may be excluded or corrected.

[0411] In addition, if disease, sudden changes in the rearing environment, feed replacement, or individual movement occur during the feeding period, information on such events may be reflected in the process of calculating the reduction amount.

[0412] The above-mentioned carbon reduction calculation step is not a simple calculation step, but a step for quantitatively calculating whether the methane emissions have decreased compared to the standard feed as a result of the feed produced by the manufacturing method of the present invention actually being fed to ruminants.

[0413] The carbon reduction amount calculated by this step can be used as key data for MRV verification in the subsequent reduction data generation step.

[0414] 3) Reduction data generation step (S13)

[0415] The above reduction data generation step is a step of generating reduction data to verify the carbon reduction amount calculated in the carbon reduction amount calculation step using the MRV method.

[0416] The above MRV method stands for Monitoring, Reporting and Verification, and may refer to a method of systematically organizing data to enable monitoring, reporting, and verification of greenhouse gas reduction amounts.

[0417] The above reduction data may include monitoring data, output data, verification data, and supporting data. The above monitoring data may include one or more of feed feeding amount data, feed intake amount data, body weight gain data, productivity data, feed quality data, and individual identification information.

[0418] The above calculated data may include reference methane emissions, actual methane emissions, methane reduction amount, applied global warming potential, and carbon dioxide equivalent amount.

[0419] The above verification data may include the data collection period, data collection method, calculation method, applied IPCC Tier 2 methodology, applied coefficient, basis for setting reference emissions, basis for calculating actual emissions, and data verification results.

[0420] The above supporting data may include feed manufacturing batch records, starch gelatinization rate measurement results, feed feeding records, individual specification records, body weight measurement records, productivity records, farm operation records, or data for submission to an external verification agency.

[0421] In the above reduction data generation step, the data can be organized by individual, herd, farm, or project period. For example, individual data can be linked to feed amount, intake, weight gain, and productivity data based on the individual number.

[0422] Data by animal herd can be organized based on groups of ruminants belonging to the same feed conditions or rearing stage. Data by farm may include the total number of animals raised at the farm level, total feed consumption, total methane reduction, and total carbon dioxide equivalent.

[0423] In the above reduction data generation step, feed manufacturing batch number, feed release date, feeding date, and information on the feed-recipient individuals or herd may be recorded together to ensure data traceability.

[0424] Accordingly, it is possible to determine whether the feed fed during a specific period is the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants under Paragraph 2, and to track the amount of methane reduction resulting from the feeding of said feed.

[0425] The above reduction data may be generated in the form of electronic documents, databases, spreadsheets, reports, or files for submission to verification bodies. The above reduction data may be utilized as foundational data for carbon-neutral livestock operations, implementation of national greenhouse gas reduction targets, low-carbon livestock certification, carbon credit registration, or carbon credit trading.

[0426] In the present invention, the reduction data generation step is not merely a step of outputting calculation results, but a step of organizing the source data obtained in the data collection step and the result data calculated in the carbon reduction amount calculation step into a verifiable structure.

[0427] Through this, the methane reduction effect resulting from feed administration can be objectively verified and utilized for calculating and verifying greenhouse gas reduction amounts in the livestock sector. Furthermore, the above reduction data generation step can reflect whether the feed produced by the manufacturing method of the present invention has actually been quality-controlled as a methane-reducing feed.

[0428] For example, the reduction data may include the measurement results of the starch gelatinization rate of the fed feed, and may indicate that the reduction amount was calculated only for feeds in which the starch gelatinization rate falls within the range of 80 to 98%.

[0429] In this way, the present invention can increase the reliability of methane reduction calculation and improve the possibility of MRV verification by utilizing feed manufacturing quality data and ruminant feeding data together.

[0430] Therefore, the carbon emission rights management method according to the present invention has technical significance in that it can generate quantifiable and verifiable reduction data based on data, rather than simply judging the effect of feeding methane-reducing feed for ruminants empirically.

[0431] 4) Greenhouse gas reduction management stage (S14)

[0432] The above greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14) is a step for managing the carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) calculated in the carbon reduction amount calculation step by individual, breeding group, or farm using the reduction data generated in the reduction data generation step, and for evaluating the reduction performance against the set greenhouse gas reduction target.

[0433] In the present invention, the carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) may be a value calculated by converting the methane reduction amount of ruminants into carbon dioxide emissions based on the global warming potential (GWP) of methane.

[0434] The above greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14) is not limited to merely displaying the results of the reduction amount calculation, but may be a step of providing management data that can be used for carbon-neutral livestock farming operations, implementation of the National Greenhouse Gas Reduction Target (NDC), low-carbon livestock certification, carbon emission allowance registration, or carbon emission allowance trading by accumulating, comparing, and evaluating the reduction performance that occurred over a certain period.

[0435] In the above greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14), the reduction data generated in the reduction data generation step can be managed by individual entity.

[0436] Individual management may refer to managing the individual number, species, sex, age, body weight, feeding period, feed amount, feed intake, body weight gain, productivity data, reference methane emissions, actual methane emissions, methane reduction, and carbon dioxide equivalent for each ruminant by linking them at the individual level.

[0437] For example, the amount of methane reduction calculated using feed intake, body weight gain, and productivity data during a specific feeding period for one Hanwoo head can be converted into CO₂eq and managed cumulatively by corresponding it to the individual number.

[0438] Such individual management can be utilized to verify the reduction effect, feed responsiveness, and changes in productivity of specific individuals. Additionally, in the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14), reduction data can be managed by rearing group.

[0439] In this specification, the term “group” may refer to a group of multiple ruminant animals belonging to the same feed conditions, the same rearing stage, the same species, the same farm area, or the same management unit.

[0440] Management by rearing group may refer to aggregating individual reduction data to calculate and manage the total methane reduction and total carbon dioxide equivalent for a specific rearing group.

[0441] For example, a group of dairy cows or Hanwoo beef cattle fed the same puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed can be set as a single rearing group, and the CO₂eq values ​​of the individuals belonging to that rearing group can be summed to calculate the reduction performance for each rearing group.

[0442] The above management by rearing group can be used to compare reduction effects by feed program, livestock type, rearing stage, or experimental group. In addition, in the above greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14), reduction data can be managed by farm.

[0443] Farm-based management may mean the cumulative management of total reduction performance generated at a farm unit, either a single farm or one containing multiple livestock buildings.

[0444] For example, the monthly, quarterly, or annual greenhouse gas reduction performance at the farm level can be calculated by summing the CO₂eq values ​​of all ruminants or a specific rearing group fed the methane-reducing feed according to the present invention at a specific farm.

[0445] The above farm-specific management can be utilized as basic data for establishing farm-level carbon neutrality operation plans, ESG management reporting, low-carbon livestock certification, and carbon credit registration. In the above greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14), the carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) can be accumulated and managed over a certain period.

[0446] The aforementioned period may be on a daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, annual, or carbon reduction project period basis. For example, the CO₂eq value for each individual can be calculated on a daily basis and accumulated monthly to calculate the monthly reduction performance for each individual.

[0447] In addition, the annual greenhouse gas reduction performance can be calculated by accumulating CO₂eq values ​​by breeding group or farm on an annual basis. In the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14) above, the set greenhouse gas reduction target and the accumulated reduction performance can be compared. The greenhouse gas reduction target can be set according to individual reduction targets, breeding group reduction targets, farm reduction targets, project period reduction targets, low-carbon certification standards, or carbon reduction project standards.

[0448] For example, greenhouse gas reduction targets per farm can be set as annual CO₂eq reductions, and reduction targets per rearing group can be set as total CO₂eq reductions over the rearing period.

[0449] In the above greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14), it is possible to evaluate whether the accumulated reduction performance has reached the set reduction target.

[0450] For example, the ratio of the actual cumulative reduction to the target reduction can be calculated as the reduction target achievement rate. The reduction target achievement rate can be calculated using the following formula: Reduction Target Achievement Rate (%) = (Cumulative CO2 equivalent reduction / Set CO2 equivalent reduction target) × 100

[0451] If the achievement rate of the above reduction target is 100% or higher, the set greenhouse gas reduction target can be evaluated as having been achieved.

[0452] If the achievement rate of the above reduction target is less than 100%, it may be determined that additional adjustments to the feed plan, adjustments to the amount of feed, expansion of the rearing population, extension of the feeding period, or re-evaluation of feed quality are necessary.

[0453] In the above greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14), subsequent management information may be generated based on the results of the reduction performance evaluation. The subsequent management information may include whether the reduction target has been achieved, the amount of insufficient reduction, the expected time of achievement, the amount of additional feed required, information on rearing groups with high reduction efficiency, information on rearing groups with low reduction efficiency, or information on the need for feed quality improvement.

[0454] The subsequent management information generated in this way can be utilized by livestock farms or operators to establish feed strategies for achieving greenhouse gas reduction targets.

[0455] The above greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14) may further include a step of outputting reduction data in the form of a table, graph, report, or electronic file. The output data may be in the form of a reduction performance table by individual, a reduction performance table by breeding group, a reduction performance table by farm, a reduction performance trend table by period, a reduction target achievement rate table, or a report for MRV verification.

[0456] In addition, the above output data can be generated in a format that can be submitted to external verification agencies, low-carbon livestock certification agencies, carbon reduction project operating agencies, or carbon emission rights registration agencies.

[0457] In the present invention, the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14) is distinguished from conventional simple feed feeding records. Conventional feed feeding records are primarily intended for managing feed usage, number of livestock, or productivity, but the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14) of the present invention is distinguished in that it converts the amount of methane reduction resulting from the feeding of methane-reducing feed into CO₂eq, and evaluates whether the reduction target has been achieved by accumulating and managing this by individual, group, or farm.

[0458] In addition, the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14) according to the present invention can be performed in conjunction with the reduction data for MRV verification generated in the reduction data generation step.

[0459] Therefore, the present invention can provide a greenhouse gas reduction management method that enables not only the simple storage of the reduction amount calculation results, but also the evaluation of performance against reduction targets and the establishment of subsequent reduction strategies.

[0460] Consequently, the above greenhouse gas reduction management step (S14) can function as a key management step that enables the practical utilization of the feeding effect of methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains for carbon-neutral livestock operations and carbon emission rights management.

[0461] 14. Utilization of Reduction Data

[0462] The reduction data generated in the reduction data generation step according to the present invention is not limited to simple statistical data or internal management data.

[0463] The above reduction data can be used as objective and traceable greenhouse gas reduction data, including feed data, feed intake data, body weight gain data, productivity data, methane emission calculation data, carbon reduction calculation data, and MRV verification data for ruminants.

[0464] The reduction data according to the present invention can be used as basic data for carbon-neutral livestock operations, implementation of National Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets (NDC), low-carbon livestock certification, carbon emission credit registration, or carbon emission credit trading.

[0465] (1) Carbon-neutral livestock farming operation

[0466] The reduction data according to the present invention can be utilized as management data for carbon-neutral operations of livestock farms or livestock enterprises.

[0467] Recently, the livestock industry has been classified as a greenhouse gas emitting industry due to the release of methane, nitrous oxide, and carbon dioxide, and governments around the world are demanding greenhouse gas reductions in the sector. Accordingly, livestock farms need to quantitatively manage the greenhouse gases generated during the rearing process.

[0468] In this invention, since the feeding history of methane-reducing feed and the actual amount of methane reduction can be quantified, the annual greenhouse gas reduction amount at the farm level can be continuously managed.

[0469] For example, in the case of raising 500 head of Hanwoo cattle annually at a specific farm, the annual carbon emissions and carbon reduction of the entire farm can be quantitatively managed by cumulatively managing the methane reduction amount calculated by feeding the feed according to the present invention.

[0470] In addition, farm operators can check annual reduction trends and establish rearing and feed management strategies to achieve future carbon neutrality goals.

[0471] Therefore, the reduction data according to the present invention can be utilized as key management data for ESG management of livestock farms, sustainable livestock operations, and the establishment of carbon-neutral farms.

[0472] (2) Implementation of National Greenhouse Gas Reduction Targets (NDC)

[0473] The reduction data according to the present invention can be utilized as basic data for the implementation of national greenhouse gas reduction targets (NDC: Nationally Determined Contribution). In accordance with the Paris Agreement, each country sets national greenhouse gas reduction targets, and the livestock industry can also be included as a major target sector for reduction. However, there has previously been a problem in that it is difficult to quantitatively calculate the amount of methane reduction in the livestock sector.

[0474] Since the present invention can calculate methane reduction amounts based on actual feed data and productivity data, actual reduction achievements in the livestock sector can be reflected in national-level greenhouse gas reduction statistics.

[0475] For example, local governments, livestock organizations, or government agencies can collect reduction data according to the present invention and aggregate greenhouse gas reduction performance for a specific region or specific livestock type.

[0476] In addition, the reductions achieved in the livestock sector can be utilized for establishing the national greenhouse gas inventory or reporting NDC implementation performance.

[0477] Therefore, the reduction data according to the present invention can be utilized for establishing national greenhouse gas reduction policies in the livestock sector and managing implementation performance.

[0478] (3) Low-carbon livestock certification

[0479] The reduction data according to the present invention can be used as objective evidence for low-carbon livestock product certification or eco-friendly livestock certification. Recently, there has been an increasing tendency among consumers to prefer livestock products produced in an environmentally friendly manner rather than those with simply high production volumes.

[0480] Accordingly, eco-friendly certification systems such as low-carbon Hanwoo beef, low-carbon milk, and low-carbon livestock products are expanding.

[0481] Since the present invention allows for the calculation and verification of actual methane reduction amounts using data, it can be utilized as objective supporting evidence during the process of applying for low-carbon livestock certification. For example, a certification body can review the reduction data generated according to the present invention to verify whether the farm in question has actually reduced methane emissions.

[0482] In addition, the reliability of the certification can be enhanced by verifying the basis for calculating the reduction amount, feed history, productivity data, and MRV verification data together.

[0483] Therefore, the reduction data according to the present invention can play a role in improving the objectivity, transparency, and verifiability of low-carbon livestock certification.

[0484] (4) Registration of carbon emission rights

[0485] The reduction data according to the present invention can be utilized as basic data for the registration of carbon emission rights. In a carbon emission rights system, the actual amount of reduction must be objectively verifiable, and the process of calculating the reduction amount must be verifiable.

[0486] In the present invention, the amount of methane reduction is calculated according to the IPCC Tier 2 methodology, converted into carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), and reduction data verifiable through the MRV method is generated.

[0487] Therefore, the reduction data according to the present invention can be used as basic data for the registration of domestic or overseas carbon reduction projects.

[0488] For example, when promoting a reduction project at the farm level or livestock organization level, the reduction data according to the present invention can be used to prepare a project registration application, a reduction performance report, or materials to be submitted to a verification agency.

[0489] In addition, since transparency in the calculation of reduction amounts can be ensured, reliability can be enhanced during the emission allowance registration review process.

[0490] (5) Carbon emission trading

[0491] The reduction data according to the present invention can be utilized as reduction performance data for carbon emission trading. In the carbon emission trading market, trading is possible only after the actual amount of reduction has been verified.

[0492] In the present invention, since data traceability can be ensured from the feed manufacturing stage to the feed feeding stage, the methane reduction amount calculation stage, and the MRV verification stage, the reliability of the reduction performance can be ensured.

[0493] For example, reduction data generated from multiple livestock farms can be integrated and operated as a single carbon reduction project, thereby enabling the implementation of a collective carbon emission rights business.

[0494] In addition, livestock organizations, cooperatives, or specialized operating agencies can utilize the reduction data generated according to the present invention to aggregate reduction performance and trade carbon emission rights corresponding to said reduction performance.

[0495] Therefore, the present invention is not limited to a technology for simply manufacturing methane-reducing feed, but can be utilized as a foundational technology capable of converting greenhouse gas reductions in the livestock sector into economic value.

[0496] Consequently, the reduction data according to the present invention enables the quantitative management of greenhouse gas reduction in the livestock industry and can provide a data-based management system that can be linked to carbon neutrality policies, implementation of national reduction targets, low-carbon certification, and the carbon emission trading market.

[0498] [Example 1]

[0499] Raw grains containing 40% by weight of corn, 30% by weight of barley, 10% by weight of wheat, 10% by weight of sorghum, and 10% by weight of oats were prepared, and various foreign substances and spoiled grains were removed.

[0500] A maturation process was performed to homogenize the moisture distribution inside the grains by supplying steam to the above raw grains to adjust the moisture content to 15% by weight, and then repeating the process of reducing the pressure to 0.5 atm for 6 hours inside a sealed maturation tank at 25℃ and then increasing the pressure to 1.5 atm at least 4 times.

[0501] Aged raw grains were fed into a known extrusion puffing machine (extruder) and puffed under conditions of 180°C and 20 bar. The puffed grains were subjected to instantaneous depressurization at the extruder outlet to form a porous structure.

[0502] Afterwards, the puffed grains were dried to adjust the moisture content to 10% by weight and ground to an average particle size of 1 to 3 mm.

[0503] 60% by weight of ground puffed grain, 15% by weight of soybean meal, 5% by weight of DDGS, 5% by weight of alfalfa hay powder, 5% by weight of timothy hay powder, 3% by weight of vitamin premix, 2% by weight of mineral premix, 3% by weight of yucca extract, and 2% by weight of quillaja extract were mixed. The mixture was molded into pellets.

[0504] The starch gelatinization rate of the manufactured pellets was measured and confirmed to be 90%, and they were selected as feed for methane reduction.

[0505] The feed of Example 1 above was fed to 10 Hanwoo cattle (test group) raised in Saengnim-myeon, Gimhae-si for 2 weeks, and 10 Hanwoo cattle (control group) raised in the same location were fed general grain feed for 2 weeks at the same amount and time as the test group. The initial body weight and age of the test group and the control group were almost identical.

[0506] The results of the 2-week payout are shown in the table below.

[0507] item control group Test group digestibility 69% 93% Daily weight gain standard 13% increase methane production standard 16% decrease

[0509] [Example 2: Preparation of Methane-Reducing Feed Based on Puffed Grains]

[0510] Raw material preparation and moisture control: After grinding raw grains consisting of 40% by weight corn, 30% by weight barley, 10% by weight wheat, 10% by weight sorghum, and 10% by weight oats, the moisture content of the raw grains was adjusted to 15% by weight using a watering device.

[0511] Repeated depressurization and abdominal pressure aging: Moisture-controlled raw grains were introduced into an aging tank, and while maintaining the temperature at 25 degrees, the inside of the aging tank was depressurized to 0.3 atm for 30 minutes to expel air from within the grain tissue, and then the process of infiltrating moisture by increasing the abdominal pressure to 2.0 atm for 30 minutes was repeated a total of 3 times to perform an effective aging treatment for 3 hours.

[0512] Puffing treatment and sorting: Matured raw grains were fed into a known extruder and extruded and puffed under conditions of a temperature of 160°C and a pressure of 15 bar. After drying and grinding the puffed grains, the starch gelatinization rate was measured, and puffed grains with a final starch gelatinization rate in the range of 90–92% were sorted and secured.

[0513] [Comparative Example 1: Preparation of puffed feed subjected to a general aging process]

[0514] The same raw grain and moisture content (15 wt%) as in Example 2 above were used, but the unique process of the present invention, 'repeated aging under reduced pressure and abdominal pressure,' was omitted, and after undergoing general atmospheric pressure aging by simply leaving it at atmospheric pressure (1 atm) for 3 hours, it was puffed under the same conditions (160℃, 15 bar). The final starch gelatinization rate of Comparative Example 1 was not uniform and was measured at an average of 72%.

[0515] [Experimental Example 1: Comparative Evaluation of Uniformity of Starch Gelatinization Rate]

[0516] Fifty samples of the feed prepared according to Example 2 and Comparative Example 1 were randomly selected for each, and the deviation (uniformity) of the starch gelatinization rate by part was measured. The results are as shown in [Table 2] below.

[0517] Comparison of starch gelatinization rate and uniformity according to aging process

[0518] division Aging process conditions Target luxury rate range Average luxury rate % Deviation in gelatinization rate (standard deviation) Example 2 Repetitive decompression abdominal pressure aging (3 times) 80~98% 92.5% ±1.2% (very uniform) Comparative Example 1 Atmospheric pressure simple aging (leaving) 80~98% 72.3% ±6.8% (very uniform)

[0520] As confirmed in [Table 2] above, Example 2, which underwent repeated depressurization and abdominal pressure aging according to the present invention, had moisture uniformly penetrated deep into the grain, stably reaching the target high gelatinization rate (80~98%) range during puffing, and had very little variation.

[0521] On the other hand, Comparative Example 1, which underwent general aging, did not receive moisture to the center of the grain, resulting in a lower overall gelatinization rate and uneven quality.

[0522] [Experimental Example 2: Evaluation of the Effects of Methane Reduction and Volatile Fatty Acid (VFA) Production in the Rumen]

[0523] To verify the effects of the feed according to the present invention on the regulation of fermentation pathways in the rumen and methane emissions, an in vitro culture experiment was conducted for 48 hours using rumen fluid from Hanwoo cattle equipped with a cannula. A commercially available compound feed was used as a control, and after the end of fermentation, the amount of methane ($CH₄$) gas produced and the ratio of propionic acid (propionate) among volatile fatty acids were measured and are shown in [Table 3] below.

[0524] Analysis of Methane Production and Propionic Acid Ratios by In Vitro Culture

[0525] division Test feed conditions Luxury rate % methane production (mL / g DM) Methane reduction rate compared to the control group % % of propionic acid in total VFA control group Commercially available general mixed feed Less than 25% 38.5 - 18.2% Comparative Example 1 Atmospheric pressure aged puffed feed 72.3% 31.2 18.9% ↓ 21.4% Example 2 Pressure-reduced abdominal pressure maturation puffed feed 92.5% 24.1 37.4% ↓ 28.7%

[0527] As shown in the experimental results of [Table 3] above, compared to the general feed (control group) with a starch gelatinization rate of less than 25%, the feeds with increased gelatinization rates through puffing treatment generally reduced methane emissions.

[0528] In particular, in the case of Example 2, which was manufactured using the core process of the present invention and achieved an optimal gelatinization rate of 80-98% (92.5%), it showed an excellent methane reduction effect of 37.4% compared to the control group, and the methane emissions were significantly reduced even compared to Comparative Example 1, which is a simple puffed feed.

[0529] This methane reduction effect is the result of the rapid increase in the production rate of propionic acid, which consumes hydrogen during the fermentation process in the rumen, in Example 2 (28.7%) compared to the control group (18.2%) and Comparative Example 1 (21.4%). In other words, the feed within the limited high gelatinization rate range of the present invention demonstrates that it effectively controls the microbial fermentation pathway in the rumen to fundamentally suppress methane production.

[0530] In addition, the above feed was fed to Hanwoo or dairy cows, and individual feed amount data, intake data, body weight data, and productivity data were collected.

[0531] Based on the collected data, the amount of methane reduction was calculated by comparing the methane emissions when feeding the standard feed with the methane emissions when feeding the feed of the present invention.

[0532] The calculated methane reduction amount was converted into a carbon dioxide equivalent amount and generated as reduction data for MRV verification, including payout data, reduction amount data, and calculation basis data.

[0533] As such, the present invention can be applied to the fields of ruminant feed manufacturing industry, livestock industry, low-carbon livestock certification industry, greenhouse gas reduction projects, carbon-neutral livestock management, and carbon emission rights management.

[0534] In particular, since the present invention utilizes the starch gelatinization rate as a quality control indicator during the feed manufacturing stage and converts the methane reduction amount after feed feeding into a carbon reduction amount, it can be utilized as a greenhouse gas reduction technology and a green technology in the livestock sector.

[0535] As a preferred embodiment of the present invention, a carbon emission rights management method using a puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants is a method for managing carbon emission rights using a puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants molded into a pellet form comprising 60% by weight of puffed grain with a starch gelatinization rate of 80 to 98% produced by the above manufacturing method, 15% by weight of soybean meal, 5% by weight of DDGS (Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles), 5% by weight of alfalfa hay powder, 5% by weight of timothy hay powder, 3% by weight of vitamin premix, 2% by weight of mineral premix, 3% by weight of yucca extract, and 2% by weight of quillaja extract, wherein the method may be carried out by a carbon-neutral livestock operation system comprising a livestock identification sensor, an electronic scale sensor, an automatic feeding device, a central data management server, and a data storage unit.

[0536] Hereinafter, a method for managing carbon emission rights using the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to the present invention will be described in detail.

[0537] The carbon emission rights management method according to the present invention is a method for feeding the methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains of claim 2 to actual ruminants, and for quantifying the methane reduction effect resulting from the feeding of said feed on an individual, group, or farm basis to manage as greenhouse gas reduction data and certification datasets.

[0538] The above carbon emission rights management method can be performed by a carbon-neutral livestock farming operation system comprising a livestock identification sensor, an electronic scale sensor, an automatic feeding device, a central data management server, and a data storage unit.

[0539] The livestock identification sensor described above may be composed of an RFID reader, an electronic ear tag reader, a biometric sensor, an image recognition device, or a combination thereof. The electronic scale sensor described above may be installed at the entrance of the livestock barn, a feeding area, a milking area, or an individual weighing area to measure the body weight or weight change of ruminants. The automatic feeding device described above may include a feeding controller capable of measuring the feed amount and remaining amount for each individual animal, a feed trough, a load cell, a feed discharge valve, and a feed amount control module. The central data management server described above may collect, calculate, store, and manage individual identification information, feed data, starch gelatinization rate information, body weight change information, methane reduction amount information, and carbon dioxide equivalent amount information. The data storage unit described above may be embedded in the central data management server or configured as a separate storage device, and may store feed history for each ruminant, greenhouse gas reduction data, and certification datasets.

[0540] The carbon-neutral livestock farming operation system according to the present invention is a system for collecting, storing, and analyzing individual information, feed feeding information, body weight change information, and greenhouse gas reduction information of ruminants fed the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to claim 2, calculating the amount of methane reduction and the amount of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), and utilizing this for carbon emission rights management.

[0541] The above carbon-neutral livestock operation system may include a livestock identification sensor, an electronic scale sensor, an automatic feeding device, a central data management server, and a data storage unit.

[0542] The above-mentioned livestock identification sensor may be installed at the entrance, feeding port, watering port, milking port, or weight measurement location of the livestock barn, and obtains individual identification information by recognizing RFID tags, electronic ear tags, NFC tags, QR tags, or biometric information attached to ruminants. The individual identification information may include individual number, livestock species, sex, date of birth, rearing group, farm number, and rearing stage information.

[0543] The electronic scale sensor described above is a sensor that measures the weight of a ruminant when it is located at a feeding location, passageway, entrance, or weighing station. The electronic scale sensor may include a load cell, a pressure sensor, a platform scale, or a floor-embedded weighing sensor. A central data management server can calculate the amount of weight change per individual by comparing weight values ​​measured over a certain period.

[0544] The above automatic feeding device is a device for feeding the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to claim 2 to individual animals or groups of animals. The above automatic feeding device may include a feed storage tank, a feed transfer unit, a feed discharge unit, a feed container, a remaining amount measuring unit, and a feeding controller. The above automatic feeding device may discharge feed according to a feeding plan received from a central data management server and calculate the actual intake amount by measuring the amount of feed discharged and the remaining amount after feeding.

[0545] The central data management server described above is a computing device that receives data from livestock identification sensors, electronic scale sensors, and automatic feeding devices, and processes the received data in conjunction with individual identification information. The central data management server may include a data collection module, an individual matching module, a feed history generation module, a methane reduction calculation module, a carbon reduction calculation module, a greenhouse gas reduction management module, and an authentication dataset generation module.

[0546] The above data collection module collects individual identification information, body weight change information, feed amount information, and feed intake information.

[0547] The above-mentioned object matching module links collected sensor data with object identification information to generate feed data and weight change data for a specific object.

[0548] The above feed history generation module generates individual feed history data by matching individual feed data with starch gelatinization rate information measured in the feed manufacturing process of claim 2. The above starch gelatinization rate information can be stored by manufacturing lot of puffed grain feed, and the central data management server can retrieve the corresponding starch gelatinization rate information based on the manufacturing lot information of the fed feed.

[0549] The above methane reduction calculation module calculates the reference methane emissions and actual methane emissions using individual feed history data, body weight change information, and feed utilization efficiency, and calculates the individual methane reduction amount corresponding to the difference.

[0550] The above carbon reduction calculation module calculates the carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) by applying a greenhouse gas conversion factor to the individual methane reduction amount.

[0551] The above greenhouse gas reduction management module aggregates the calculated CO₂ equivalents (CO₂eq) by individual, breeding group, or farm to calculate the cumulative CO₂ equivalents, and calculates the greenhouse gas reduction rate and the degree of achievement of reduction targets relative to baseline greenhouse gas emissions.

[0552] The above certification dataset generation module generates a certification dataset including cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and the degree of achievement of reduction targets. The above certification dataset can be used as verification data for low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction project registration, carbon reduction certification, carbon emission allowance registration, or carbon emission allowance trading.

[0553] The above data storage unit may be embedded in a central data management server or connected to communicate with a central data management server. The above data storage unit may store individual identification information, feed feeding data, starch gelatinization rate information, individual feed feeding history data, methane reduction amount information, carbon dioxide equivalent amount information, greenhouse gas reduction data, and certification datasets.

[0554] The above carbon-neutral livestock operation system may further include a communication unit. The communication unit performs data transmission and reception between a livestock identification sensor, an electronic scale sensor, an automatic feeding device, and a central data management server, and may use one or more of wired communication, Wi-Fi, LTE, 5G, Bluetooth, LoRa, or Zigbee communication methods.

[0555] The above-described carbon-neutral livestock farming operation system may further include a display unit or a user terminal. The display unit or user terminal may display individual feed intake, weight change, methane reduction, carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and reduction target achievement level on the screen.

[0556] According to the above carbon-neutral livestock operation system, the actual feeding history of methane-reducing feed based on puffed grains for ruminants and the greenhouse gas reduction effect can be managed by linking them at the individual level. Accordingly, the present invention can quantitatively verify the methane emission reduction effect of ruminants and utilize this for carbon-neutral livestock operation and carbon credit management.

[0557] Each step performed in the above system is described in detail below.

[0558] In the carbon emission rights management method of the present invention, the feed feeding step (S11) is a step of feeding the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants of claim 2, which is manufactured by the above manufacturing method, to individual ruminants.

[0559] In the above feed feeding step (S11), a predetermined amount of feed can be supplied to each individual through an automatic feeding device. At this time, the amount of feed can be set according to the type of ruminant, body weight, growth stage, milk yield, rearing purpose, feeding program, and methane reduction target.

[0560] For example, individual daily feed amounts can be set for ruminants such as dairy cows, Hanwoo cattle, beef cattle, goats, or sheep, and a central data management server can transmit the corresponding feeding plan to an automatic feeder. The automatic feeder dispenses feed according to the received feeding plan and measures the amount of feed dispensed so that it can be utilized in the subsequent data collection stage.

[0561] The above step is not merely limited to supplying feed, but is a step that generates the actual act of feeding, which serves as the basis for calculating the methane reduction amount. Therefore, in the present invention, subsequent data collection and carbon reduction amount calculation can be performed only after the feed of Claim 2 has been actually fed to ruminants.

[0562] The above feed feeding step (S11) can be performed by controlling an automatic feeding device. The automatic feeding device may include a feed storage tank, a conveying screw, a feed discharger, a feed container, a feeding controller, and a weight measuring unit.

[0563] The central data management server can generate payroll planning data according to the object-specific specification management program and transmit the said payroll planning data to the automatic feeding device.

[0564] The above feeding plan data may include one or more of the following: individual identification number, feeding time, feeding frequency, feeding amount per feeding, total daily feeding amount, target body weight, target productivity, target greenhouse gas reduction amount, and feed type. For example, a central data management server may generate a feeding plan to feed 12 kg of puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants in three divided portions per day to a dairy cow weighing 650 kg.

[0565] The automatic feeding device receives feed from the feed storage tank according to the above feeding plan and can feed individual ruminants by discharging a set weight of feed.

[0566] The weight measuring unit equipped in the above automatic feeding device can measure the weight of the feed before discharge and the weight of the feed after discharge to calculate the actual feeding amount.

[0567] The above actual feed amount can be transmitted to a central data management server and stored as basic data for individual feed history data. In the above feed feeding step (S11), manufacturing lot information of the fed feed can be recorded together. The above manufacturing lot information can be used as information to be matched with starch gelatinization rate information in the subsequent data linkage step (S14).

[0568] For example, if the automatic feeding device feeds puffed grain feed from manufacturing lot "LOT-2026-001" to a specific individual, it can transmit the manufacturing lot information along with the feeding amount information to a central data management server.

[0569] The above central data management server can generate feed feeding record data including an individual identification number, feeding time, manufacturing lot information, feeding amount information, and feed type information. The above feed feeding record data can be used as basic data for subsequent individual identification step (S12), data collection step (S13), and data linkage step (S14).

[0570] In the above feed feeding step (S11), the methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains of claim 2 is fed to actual ruminants, and the feeding history is recorded as digital data, thereby securing reference data for calculating methane reduction and carbon reduction amounts thereafter.

[0571] In the present invention, the individual identification step (S12) is a step in which, for a ruminant animal fed the feed in the feed feeding step (S11), the livestock identification sensor recognizes an RFID tag, an electronic ear tag, or biometric information to obtain individual identification information, and stores the individual identification information in a central data management server.

[0572] The individual identification step (S12) is a step in which, for a ruminant that received feed in the feed feeding step (S11), a livestock identification sensor recognizes an RFID tag, an electronic ear tag, or biometric information to obtain individual identification information, and stores the individual identification information in a central data management server.

[0573] The above RFID tag or electronic ear tag may be attached to the ruminant's ear, collar, ankle, subcutaneous implant tag, or other identifiable location. Biometric information may include the ruminant's nose print, facial image, body shape image, gait pattern, or voice information.

[0574] The above individual identification information may include one or more of the following: individual number, farm number, livestock type, gender, date of birth, rearing group information, rearing stage information, and feed program information.

[0575] The central data management server stores individual identification information received from livestock identification sensors in the data storage unit and manages it so that it can be linked to feed data, body weight change data, methane reduction data, and greenhouse gas reduction data generated in subsequent steps at the same individual level.

[0576] Through this step, the present invention can manage individual methane reduction amounts and individual greenhouse gas reduction performance, rather than simple farm-unit average values.

[0577] The above individual identification step (S12) is a step in which, for a ruminant fed the methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains of claim 2 in the feed feeding step (S11), a livestock identification sensor acquires individual identification information and stores it in a central data management server.

[0578] The above livestock identification sensor may be composed of an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) reader, an electronic ear tag reader, an NFC (Near Field Communication) reader, an image recognition camera, a biometric sensor, or a combination thereof.

[0579] The above RFID tag or electronic ear tag may be attached to the ear, collar, ankle, or a specific location on the body of a ruminant, and may include a unique identification number for each ruminant.

[0580] The above biometric sensor can identify an individual by recognizing the nose print, facial shape, iris, body shape, gait pattern, or voice information of a ruminant.

[0581] The above individual identification step (S12) can be performed automatically when a ruminant passes through a feeding space, a weighing space, a watering space, or an entrance to a livestock barn.

[0582] For example, when a ruminant approaches an automatic feeder, an RFID reader installed around the feeder receives the RFID signal from the electronic ear tag and can obtain the individual identification number.

[0583] The central data management server can identify the object by comparing the received object identification number with the object information database stored in the data storage unit.

[0584] The above individual information database may include individual identification number, farm number, livestock type, breed, gender, date of birth, rearing group information, rearing stage information, health status information, productivity information, and feed program information.

[0585] For example, if the individual identification number "KH-000123" is recognized, the central data management server can confirm that the individual is "Korean beef cow, 24 months old, weight 620 kg, non-army."

[0586] The above central data management server can retrieve object information corresponding to a recognized object identification number and generate object identification information so as to be linked with the feed history, weight history, and methane reduction history of the object.

[0587] The above individual identification information may include at least an individual identification number, and may further include a farm number, rearing group number, livestock species information, gender information, and rearing stage information as needed.

[0588] The above central data management server can add identification time information and identification location information to the generated object identification information.

[0589] The above identification time information may include the date and time when the object was recognized, and the identification location information may include location information such as a livestock barn entrance, feeding space, watering space, or weighing space.

[0590] The individual identification information generated in the above individual identification step (S12) can be stored in a data storage unit and can be used as reference data to link the weight change amount, feed amount, and actual feed intake amount measured in the subsequent data collection step (S13) with a specific individual.

[0591] In addition, the above-mentioned individual identification information can be linked with individual feed feeding history data generated in the data linkage step (S14), individual methane reduction amount information generated in the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15), carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) information generated in the carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16), and cumulative greenhouse gas reduction performance generated in the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18).

[0592] Accordingly, the present invention can manage feed history and methane reduction effects at the individual level rather than the overall farm average, and can quantitatively track greenhouse gas reduction performance by individual.

[0593] In particular, since differences in feed intake, body weight gain, and methane reduction among individuals can be managed even within the same rearing group, the actual feeding effect of puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants can be analyzed more accurately.

[0594] In the present invention, the data collection step (S13) is a step in which, based on the individual identification information obtained in the individual identification step (S12), the electronic scale sensor measures the change in weight of each individual, and the automatic feeding device measures the feeding amount and actual intake of the feed to generate individual feed feeding data, and then transmits the individual feed feeding data to a central data management server.

[0595] The above data collection step (S13) is a step in which, based on the individual identification information obtained in the individual identification step (S12), an electronic scale sensor measures the change in weight of each individual, and an automatic feeder measures the feeding amount and actual intake of the feed of claim 2 to generate individual feed feeding data, and then transmits the individual feed feeding data to a central data management server.

[0596] The above weight change amount may refer to the difference in individual weight measured over a certain period. For example, daily, weekly, monthly, or total weight change amounts for the entire rearing period may be calculated.

[0597] The above feed amount may refer to the weight of feed supplied to individual ruminants by the automatic feeder. The above actual intake may be calculated by subtracting the remaining amount after feeding from the feed amount. For example, a load cell or weight sensor installed in the automatic feeder measures the weight before feed input, the weight after feed input, and the remaining amount after feeding ends, and a central data management server can use this to calculate the actual intake.

[0598] The above individual feed data may include one or more of individual identification information, feeding date, feeding time, feeding amount, remaining amount, actual intake, and weight change amount.

[0599] The individual feed data generated at this stage is subsequently matched with starch gelatinization rate information measured in the feed manufacturing process in the data linkage step (S14) to expand into individual feed history data.

[0600] The above data collection step (S13) is a step in which, based on the individual identification information obtained in the individual identification step (S12), an electronic scale sensor measures the change in weight of each individual, and an automatic feeder measures the feeding amount and actual intake amount of the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to claim 2 to generate individual feed feeding data, and then transmits the individual feed feeding data to a central data management server.

[0601] The above data collection step (S13) uses the individual identification information generated in the individual identification step (S12) as reference data. Accordingly, even if multiple ruminant animals enter and exit the same feeding space or weighing space, the central data management server can manage weight data, feeding amount data, and intake amount data collected from each sensor by associating them with a specific individual.

[0602] The above electronic scale sensor may be installed at the entrance of a livestock barn, in front of a feeding device, at a weighing station, in a watering area, in a milking area, or in an animal movement passage. The above electronic scale sensor may be composed of a load cell, a pressure sensor, a floor-embedded weighing sensor, a platform-type electronic scale, or a combination thereof.

[0603] The above electronic scale sensor can measure the weight of a ruminant when the ruminant, whose individual identification information has been verified, is located at the weighing position. The central data management server can calculate the amount of weight change per individual by comparing the currently measured weight value with the previously stored weight value.

[0604] The above weight change amount can be calculated as a daily weight change amount, a weekly weight change amount, a monthly weight change amount, or a weight change amount by rearing period. For example, if the weight of a specific individual on the previous day was 610 kg and the weight on the current day was 612 kg, the central data management server can calculate the daily weight change amount of the individual as 2 kg.

[0605] The above automatic feeding device may include a feed storage tank, a conveying screw, a discharge valve, a feeding trough, a feeding controller, a feeding amount measuring unit, and a remaining amount measuring unit. The above automatic feeding device may supply the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to claim 2 to the feeding trough according to an individual feeding plan.

[0606] The above feeding amount can be measured by the weight of the feed discharged from the automatic feeding device into the feed trough. The above feeding amount can be calculated using the weight change of the feed storage tank, the rotational speed of the conveying screw, the opening time of the discharge valve, a load cell installed in the feed trough, or a combination thereof.

[0607] The above actual intake can be calculated by subtracting the remaining amount after feeding from the amount fed. For example, if 10 kg of feed is fed to a specific individual and 1 kg of remaining amount is measured in the feeder after feeding, the central data management server can calculate the actual intake as 9 kg.

[0608] The above automatic feeding device can generate feed amount and remaining amount data only for ruminants whose individual identification information has been verified. This allows the feed amount and actual intake to be attributed to the data of a specific individual.

[0609] The above central data management server generates individual feed feeding data by combining the weight value and weight change amount received from the electronic scale sensor, the feeding amount, remaining amount, and actual intake amount received from the automatic feeder, with individual identification information.

[0610] The above individual feed data may include one or more of individual identification information, feeding date, feeding time, feed type, feed manufacturing lot information, feed amount, remaining amount after feeding, actual intake amount, body weight value, and body weight change amount.

[0611] The above feed manufacturing lot information can be used as information to be matched with starch gelatinization rate information in the subsequent data linkage step (S14). For example, if the feed of claim 2 is manufactured with manufacturing lot "LOT-A" and the starch gelatinization rate of the lot is measured as 92%, the individual feed feeding data generated in the data collection step (S13) may include manufacturing lot "LOT-A".

[0612] The above central data management server can temporarily store the generated feed data for each individual in the data storage unit or transmit it to the subsequent data linkage step (S14).

[0613] By the above data collection step (S13), the present invention can not only simply feed methane-reducing feed to ruminants, but also obtain quantitative data on how much feed an individual actually received at what time and how much was actually consumed, and how its body weight changed during that period.

[0614] These individual feed data are matched with starch gelatinization rate information in the subsequent data linkage step (S14) to expand into individual feed history data, and are used as basic data for calculating the reference methane emission, actual methane emission, and individual methane reduction amount in the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15).

[0615] In the present invention, the data linkage step (S14) is a step in which the central data management server matches the individual feed feeding data generated in the data collection step (S13) with starch gelatinization rate information to generate individual feed feeding history data, and stores the individual feed feeding history data in a data storage unit.

[0616] The above data linkage step (S14) is a step in which a central data management server matches the individual feed feeding data generated in the data collection step (S13) with starch gelatinization rate information to generate individual feed feeding history data, and stores the individual feed feeding history data in a data storage unit.

[0617] The above starch gelatinization rate information may refer to a starch gelatinization rate value measured in the manufacturing process of the methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains according to claim 2. For example, the starch gelatinization rate information may be a value representing the degree of starch gelatinization contained in the puffed grains as a percentage. The above starch gelatinization rate information may be measured by enzymatic hydrolysis, polarized light microscopy, DSC analysis, or an equivalent analysis method.

[0618] To explain the above starch gelatinization rate information in more detail, the starch gelatinization rate information utilized in the carbon-neutral livestock farming operation system and emission rights management method according to one embodiment of the present invention refers to the starch gelatinization rate value measured during the manufacturing process or after the completion of manufacturing of the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants described in claim 2.

[0619] Specifically, the above starch gelatinization rate information may be a value quantified as a percentage (%) of the degree of gelatinization (α-gelatinization) among the total starch contained in the puffed grain. This quantified starch gelatinization rate information functions as a key parameter for precisely predicting the fermentation pattern of microorganisms in the rumen (the ratio of propionic acid production among volatile fatty acids) and scientifically calculating the amount of methane gas reduction.

[0620] Meanwhile, in the present invention, the starch gelatinization rate information can be obtained through various starch analysis techniques recognized in the art. For example, the starch gelatinization rate information may include all values ​​measured by enzymatic hydrolysis (e.g., enzymatic method using glucoamylase, etc.), polarized light microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), or chemical and physical analysis methods equivalent thereto.

[0621] The central data management server above can ensure the objectivity and integrity of greenhouse gas reduction data by performing a data linkage step (S14) and a methane reduction amount calculation step (S15) based on starch gelatinization rate information derived and input through such a reliable analysis method, and by combining it with collected livestock feed data.

[0622] The central data management server can retrieve starch gelatinization rate information measured in the corresponding feed manufacturing process based on feed identification information or manufacturing lot information included in the individual feed data. Subsequently, the central data management server combines the individual feed amount, actual intake amount, body weight change amount, and starch gelatinization rate information into a single data record to generate individual feed history data.

[0623] The above individual feed feeding history data may include individual identification information, feed identification information, manufacturing lot information, starch gelatinization rate information, feed feeding amount information, actual intake amount information, and body weight change amount information.

[0624] Accordingly, the present invention allows for the quantitative management of how much puffed grain feed an individual ruminant has consumed, rather than simply recording how much feed has been eaten.

[0625] The above data linkage step (S14) is a step in which a central data management server matches the individual feed data generated in the data collection step (S13) with the starch gelatinization rate information measured in the manufacturing process of the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to claim 2 to generate individual feed history data, and stores the individual feed history data in a data storage unit.

[0626] The above starch gelatinization rate information is information measured during the process of manufacturing the methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains according to claim 2, and may be numerical information indicating the degree of gelatinization of starch contained in the puffed grains.

[0627] The above starch gelatinization rate can be measured using an enzymatic hydrolysis method, a polarized light microscopy method, a DSC (Differential Scanning Calorimetry) analysis method, or an equivalent analysis method, and can be measured for each manufacturing lot and stored in a data storage unit.

[0628] For example, if puffed grain feed of manufacturing lot "LOT-2026-001" is manufactured under conditions of a temperature of 180°C and a pressure of 20 bar and the starch gelatinization rate is measured as 92%, the central data management server can store the starch gelatinization rate information along with the manufacturing lot number.

[0629] The individual feed data generated in the data collection step (S13) may include an individual identification number, feeding date and time, feed type, manufacturing lot information, feed amount, actual intake amount, and weight change amount.

[0630] The central data management server can retrieve starch gelatinization rate information stored in the data storage based on manufacturing lot information included in the feed data for each individual. For example, if the feed data of a specific individual includes the manufacturing lot "LOT-2026-001", the central data management server can retrieve the starch gelatinization rate of 92% corresponding to that manufacturing lot.

[0631] Subsequently, the central data management server can combine the above-mentioned individual feed data and starch gelatinization rate information into a single data record to generate individual feed history data.

[0632] The above individual feed history data may include at least the following information: individual identification number, farm number, rearing group information, feed type, manufacturing lot information, feeding date and time, feed amount, actual feed intake, body weight change, and starch gelatinization rate information.

[0633] The above central data management server can verify the integrity of the generated individual feed history data. For example, it can check whether manufacturing lot information exists, whether starch gelatinization rate information exists, whether individual identification information exists, and whether feed amount and intake amount data have been properly entered, and unverified data can be classified as error data or stored in a separate storage area.

[0634] In addition, the central data management server can manage multiple feed history data for the same individual by sorting them in chronological order and accumulating them. For example, if a specific individual is fed the feed of paragraph 2 for 30 days, the central data management server can manage information on the amount fed, intake, weight change, and starch gelatinization rate for the 30 days in the form of time-series data.

[0635] The above individual feed history data can be used as input data for the subsequent methane reduction amount calculation step (S15). That is, the central data management server calculates feed utilization efficiency using starch gelatinization rate information, actual intake information, and body weight change information included in the individual feed history data, and can calculate the standard methane emission amount and actual methane emission amount based on this.

[0636] Therefore, the data linkage step (S14) of the present invention is not merely a simple data storage step, but can be considered a core step for generating individual feed history data to quantitatively evaluate the methane reduction effect by integrating starch gelatinization rate information generated in the manufacturing process and individual feed data generated at the livestock farm.

[0637] In particular, the present invention enables the calculation of methane reduction amounts that simultaneously reflect the quality characteristics of puffed grain feed and the actual intake history of ruminants by directly linking starch gelatinization rate information with individual feed data, thereby enabling more accurate management of greenhouse gas reduction performance and carbon credits.

[0638] In the present invention, the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15) is a step in which the central data management server calculates the feed utilization efficiency for each individual using the individual feed feeding history data generated in the data linkage step (S14), calculates the standard methane emission amount and the actual methane emission amount for each individual based on the calculated feed utilization efficiency and the change in body weight, and then calculates the individual methane reduction amount corresponding to the difference between the standard methane emission amount and the actual methane emission amount.

[0639] The methane reduction amount calculation step (S15) is a step in which the central data management server calculates the feed utilization efficiency for each individual using the individual feed feeding history data generated in the data linkage step (S14), calculates the standard methane emission and actual methane emission for each individual based on the calculated feed utilization efficiency and weight change, and then calculates the individual methane reduction amount corresponding to the difference between the standard methane emission and the actual methane emission.

[0640] The above feed utilization efficiency can be calculated as the ratio of body weight gain, milk yield increase, or productivity indicators to actual feed intake. For example, in the case of beef cattle, feed utilization efficiency can be calculated by dividing body weight gain by actual feed intake. In the case of dairy cows, feed utilization efficiency can be calculated by dividing milk production or milk fat-corrected milk production by actual feed intake.

[0641] The above standard methane emission may refer to the methane emission when the feed specified in Paragraph 2 is not fed or when general grain feed is fed. The above standard methane emission may be calculated using information on the individual's body weight, feed intake, type of feed, rearing period, livestock species, and productivity.

[0642] The above actual methane emissions may refer to the expected or measured methane emissions after feeding the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to Paragraph 2. The actual methane emissions may be calculated using starch gelatinization rate information, actual intake, change in body weight, and feed utilization efficiency included in individual feed history data.

[0643] The central data management server calculates the methane reduction amount for each individual by subtracting the actual methane emissions from the reference methane emissions.

[0644] For example, if the standard methane emission of a specific individual is 300g CH₄ per day and the actual methane emission after feeding the feed of paragraph 2 is calculated to be 250g CH₄ per day, the daily methane reduction amount for that individual can be calculated as 50g CH₄.

[0645] The individual methane reduction amount calculated at this stage is converted into a carbon dioxide equivalent amount in the subsequent carbon reduction amount calculation stage (S16).

[0646] The methane reduction amount calculation step (S15) described above is a step in which a central data management server calculates the feed utilization efficiency for each individual using the individual feed feeding history data generated in the data linkage step (S14), calculates the standard methane emission and actual methane emission for each individual based on the calculated feed utilization efficiency and weight change, and then calculates the individual methane reduction amount corresponding to the difference between the standard methane emission and the actual methane emission.

[0647] The above individual feed feeding history data may include individual identification number, feed feeding amount, actual feed intake, weight change amount, feed manufacturing lot information, and starch gelatinization rate information.

[0648] The central data management server can first calculate the feed utilization efficiency for each individual using the actual feed intake and weight change included in the above-mentioned feed history data for each individual.

[0649] The above feed utilization efficiency may be calculated in different ways depending on the type of ruminant and the purpose of rearing. For example, in the case of beef cattle, feed utilization efficiency may be calculated by dividing the body weight gain over a certain period by the actual feed intake over the same period. In the case of dairy cows, feed utilization efficiency may be calculated by dividing the milk production or milk fat-corrected milk production over a certain period by the actual feed intake over the same period.

[0650] For example, if a specific beef cattle consumes 300 kg of the methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains according to paragraph 2 for 30 days and gains 30 kg in body weight, the central data management server can calculate the feed utilization efficiency of the individual as 0.10 kg body weight gain / kg feed intake.

[0651] The central data management server can calculate the standard methane emissions per individual based on the above-mentioned feed utilization efficiency, actual feed intake, body weight change, and starch gelatinization rate information.

[0652] The above standard methane emissions may refer to the methane emissions expected to occur in the individual when the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants of paragraph 2 is not fed, or when a general grain feed with an improved starch gelatinization rate is fed.

[0653] The above reference methane emissions can be calculated using information on the individual's livestock species, body weight, rearing period, actual feed intake, dry matter intake, feed composition, feed utilization efficiency, and productivity. For example, a central data management server can calculate reference methane emissions using methane emission factors under general grain feed feeding conditions or farm-specific reference emission factors.

[0654] The central data management server can also calculate actual methane emissions using starch gelatinization rate information included in individual feed history data.

[0655] The above actual methane emissions may refer to methane emissions expected to occur or measured in the individual after feeding the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to paragraph 2.

[0656] The above actual methane emissions can be calculated by applying a methane reduction factor to the standard methane emissions. The above methane reduction factor may be set by reflecting one or more of the starch gelatinization rate, actual feed intake, feed utilization efficiency, and change in body weight.

[0657] For example, when feeding puffed grain feed with a starch gelatinization rate increased to the range of 80–98%, the central data management server can calculate the actual methane emissions by applying a methane reduction factor that reflects the methane reduction effect compared to general grain feed.

[0658] In one embodiment, the methane reduction factor may be set to reflect the characteristic that as the starch gelatinization rate increases, the rate of propionic acid production in the rumen increases and the amount of hydrogen available to methane-producing bacteria decreases.

[0659] More specifically, if the starch gelatinization rate information is higher than the standard starch gelatinization rate, the central data management server may apply a methane reduction factor corresponding to the difference. For example, if the standard starch gelatinization rate is set to 60% and the starch gelatinization rate of the feed in paragraph 2 is 92%, the central data management server may calculate the actual methane emission as a reduced value by reflecting the increase in the starch gelatinization rate.

[0660] The above methane reduction factor can be pre-set using experimental data, feeding trial data, farm-specific historical data, or literature-based data. For example, if it is confirmed that methane emissions decreased by 18% as a result of feeding puffed grain feed with a starch gelatinization rate of 92% in a specific feeding trial, the central data management server can set the methane reduction factor corresponding to that condition to 0.82.

[0661] The central data management server can calculate the reference methane emissions and actual methane emissions, and then calculate the methane reduction amount for each individual by subtracting the actual methane emissions from the reference methane emissions.

[0662] In other words, the amount of methane reduction per individual can be calculated by the following relationship.

[0663] Methane reduction per individual = Baseline methane emissions - Actual methane emissions

[0664] For example, if the standard methane emissions of a specific individual are 9 kg CH₄ over 30 days and the actual methane emissions after feeding the feed of paragraph 2 are calculated to be 7.38 kg CH₄, the methane reduction amount for that individual can be calculated as 1.62 kg CH₄.

[0665] The above central data management server can store the calculated individual methane reduction amount along with individual identification number, feed manufacturing lot information, starch gelatinization rate information, feed intake information, and calculation period information in a data storage unit.

[0666] In addition, if the methane reduction amount per entity is calculated as a negative number, the central data management server may classify the data as abnormal data or correct the methane reduction amount to zero. This is intended to treat the actual methane emissions as having no reduction record when they are calculated to be significantly higher than the reference methane emissions.

[0667] By the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15) above, the present invention can quantify the feeding effect of the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to claim 2 not as a simple feed efficiency improvement effect, but as an individual amount of methane emission reduction.

[0668] Furthermore, by incorporating starch gelatinization rate information, actual feed intake, and changes in body weight, it is possible to calculate methane reduction amounts that reflect actual rearing conditions, rather than estimation methods based on simple feed amounts.

[0669] Accordingly, the individual methane reduction amount calculated can be converted into carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) in the subsequent carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16) and used as basic data for generating greenhouse gas reduction data and certification datasets.

[0670] The carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16) of the present invention is a step in which the central data management server calculates the carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) based on the individual methane reduction amount calculated in the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15).

[0671] The carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16) is a step in which a central data management server calculates the carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) based on the individual methane reduction amount calculated in the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15).

[0672] The above carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) can be calculated by applying a greenhouse gas conversion factor to the methane reduction amount. The above greenhouse gas conversion factor may include the global warming potential of methane or the conversion factor determined in the national greenhouse gas calculation standards.

[0673] The central data management server can calculate the carbon dioxide equivalent for each individual by multiplying the methane reduction amount for each individual by a greenhouse gas conversion factor.

[0674] For example, if the methane reduction of a specific individual over a certain period is 1 kg CH₄ and the applicable greenhouse gas conversion factor is 28, the carbon dioxide equivalent of that individual can be calculated as 28 kg CO₂eq.

[0675] The above carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16) is a step of converting the methane reduction amount into a common unit that can be managed as greenhouse gas reduction performance. Accordingly, the methane reduction effect per individual, per rearing group, or per farm can be managed in an integrated manner based on the carbon dioxide equivalent amount.

[0676] The carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16) is a step in which a central data management server calculates the carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) based on the individual methane reduction amount calculated in the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15).

[0677] The above carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16) is a step of converting the reduction amount calculated in methane (CH₄) units into carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) units so that it can be integrated and managed as greenhouse gas reduction performance.

[0678] The central data management server above can retrieve the individual methane reduction amount calculated in the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15) from the data storage unit, or directly receive the calculation result of the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15).

[0679] The above individual methane reduction amount can be expressed in g CH₄ / day, kg CH₄ / day, kg CH₄ / month, kg CH₄ / year, or in kg CH₄ units during a specific rearing period.

[0680] The above central data management server can calculate the carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) by applying a greenhouse gas conversion factor to the methane reduction amount for each individual.

[0681] The above greenhouse gas conversion factor may be set according to the Global Warming Potential (GWP) of methane, national greenhouse gas inventory calculation standards, carbon reduction certification standards, or equivalent greenhouse gas conversion standards.

[0682] For example, if the greenhouse gas conversion factor for methane is set to 28, the central data management server can convert 1 kg of methane reduction into 28 kg CO₂eq.

[0683] That is, the above carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) can be calculated by the following relationship.

[0684] Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) = Methane reduction (CH₄) × Greenhouse gas conversion factor

[0685] For example, if a specific individual's 30-day methane reduction is 1.62 kg CH₄ and the greenhouse gas conversion factor is 28, the central data management server can calculate the carbon dioxide equivalent of the individual as 45.36 kg CO₂eq.

[0686] The above central data management server can calculate the carbon dioxide equivalent amount for each individual and store it in a data storage unit along with individual identification information, calculation period information, methane reduction amount information, and applied greenhouse gas conversion factor information.

[0687] The above calculation period information may include daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, yearly, or rearing period period information.

[0688] The above greenhouse gas conversion factor information may include the value of the conversion factor used to calculate the carbon dioxide equivalent, the application criteria, and the application time.

[0689] The above central data management server can calculate the individual carbon dioxide equivalent for multiple individuals and then sum them by breeding group or farm.

[0690] For example, if the carbon dioxide equivalent is calculated for each of the 100 ruminants belonging to the same rearing group, the central data management server can calculate the carbon dioxide equivalent for each rearing group by summing the carbon dioxide equivalents of the 100 animals.

[0691] In addition, the carbon dioxide equivalent for each farm can be calculated by summing the carbon dioxide equivalents for multiple rearing groups within the same farm.

[0692] If the calculated carbon dioxide equivalent is negative or falls outside the abnormal range, the central data management server described above may classify the data as abnormal data or recalculate it according to pre-set verification conditions.

[0693] For example, if the methane reduction amount per individual is calculated as a negative number, the carbon dioxide equivalent amount of that individual can be adjusted to 0 or treated as having no reduction performance.

[0694] In addition, the central data management server stores the calculation period, calculation target, feed manufacturing lot, starch gelatinization rate information, and calculation basis data together with the calculated carbon dioxide equivalent amount, thereby enabling the tracking and verification of the reduction amount in the subsequent greenhouse gas reduction data generation step (S17) and greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18).

[0695] By the above carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16), the present invention can convert the methane reduction effect resulting from feeding the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to claim 2 into a common greenhouse gas reduction unit called carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq).

[0696] Accordingly, the methane reduction effects by individual, breeding group, or farm can be compared and managed according to a unified standard, and can be utilized as carbon reduction performance data in the subsequent reduction data generation stage (S17), greenhouse gas reduction management stage (S18), and certification linkage stage (S19).

[0697] In addition, the carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16) quantifies the amount of methane reduction derived from ruminants and provides a basic calculated value that can be used for carbon-neutral livestock farming operations, low-carbon livestock farming certification, greenhouse gas reduction project registration, carbon reduction certification, and carbon emission rights management.

[0698] The reduction data generation step (S17) of the present invention is a step in which the central data management server generates greenhouse gas reduction data including the carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) calculated in the carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16), individual identification information, feed amount information, feed intake amount information, and body weight change amount information, and stores the greenhouse gas reduction data in a data storage unit.

[0699] The reduction data generation step (S17) is a step in which a central data management server generates greenhouse gas reduction data including the carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) calculated in the carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16), individual identification information, feed amount information, feed intake information, and body weight change information, and stores the greenhouse gas reduction data in a data storage unit.

[0700] The above greenhouse gas reduction data is composed of the calculation result of the carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16) and the basic data serving as the basis for the calculation into a single data structure.

[0701] The above greenhouse gas reduction data may include individual identification information, rearing group information, feeding period information, feed amount information, actual intake information, body weight change information, starch gelatinization rate information, reference methane emission information, actual methane emission information, methane reduction amount information, and carbon dioxide equivalent amount information.

[0702] The central data management server stores the above greenhouse gas reduction data in the data storage unit and enables it to be used for aggregation by individual, breeding group, or farm in the subsequent greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18).

[0703] Through this step, the present invention not only calculates the feeding effect of methane-reducing feed as a simple numerical value, but also enables the traceable management of which individual, which feed, which feeding amount, which intake amount, and which body weight change resulted in the reduction amount.

[0704] The reduction data generation step (S17) is a step in which a central data management server generates greenhouse gas reduction data including the carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) calculated in the carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16), individual identification information, feed amount information, feed intake information, and body weight change information, and stores the greenhouse gas reduction data in a data storage unit.

[0705] The above reduction data generation step (S17) is a step of structuring the result values ​​calculated in the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15) and the carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16), and the basic data serving as the basis for the calculation, into a single greenhouse gas reduction data.

[0706] The central data management server first retrieves the individual carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) calculated in the carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16).

[0707] In addition, the central data management server can retrieve together the object identification information stored in the object identification step (S12), the feed amount information generated in the data collection step (S13), the actual feed intake information and weight change information, the feed history data per object generated in the data linkage step (S14), and the methane reduction amount information per object calculated in the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15).

[0708] The above central data management server can combine the retrieved information based on the same entity identification information and the same calculation period to generate a single greenhouse gas reduction data record.

[0709] The above greenhouse gas reduction data may include at least the following items: individual identification information; feed amount information; feed intake information; body weight change information; and carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) information.

[0710] In addition, the above greenhouse gas reduction data may further include feed manufacturing lot information, starch gelatinization rate information, reference methane emission information, actual methane emission information, individual methane reduction amount information, calculation period information, and applied greenhouse gas conversion factor information as needed.

[0711] The above individual identification information may include an individual identification number, livestock species, breeding group information, or farm information.

[0712] The above feed amount information may refer to the total amount of methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains of paragraph 2 supplied to the individual over a certain period.

[0713] The above feed intake information may refer to the actual intake calculated by subtracting the remaining amount after feeding from the above feed amount.

[0714] The above information on weight change may refer to the weight increase or weight change value for each individual measured during the calculation period.

[0715] The above carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) information may refer to the value obtained by converting the individual methane reduction amount according to the greenhouse gas conversion factor in the carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16).

[0716] The above calculation period information may refer to the reference period for which greenhouse gas reduction data is calculated, and may be set on a daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis, or in units of a specific rearing period.

[0717] For example, if for a specific individual, the feed amount of Paragraph 2 is calculated to be 300 kg, the actual intake is 285 kg, the weight change is 30 kg, the methane reduction is 1.62 kg CH₄, and the carbon dioxide equivalent is 45.36 kg CO₂eq over 30 days, the central data management server can generate this information as a single greenhouse gas reduction data record.

[0718] The above central data management server can check for missing data regarding the generated greenhouse gas reduction data.

[0719] For example, if one or more of the individual identification information, feed intake information, body weight change information, or carbon dioxide equivalent information are missing, the central data management server may classify the corresponding greenhouse gas reduction data as pending data or erroneous data.

[0720] In addition, the central data management server can classify the data as abnormal data if the feed intake is calculated to be significantly higher than the feed amount, if the change in body weight is within an abnormal range, or if the carbon dioxide equivalent is calculated as a negative number.

[0721] The above central data management server stores greenhouse gas reduction data classified as normal data in the data storage unit.

[0722] The above data storage unit can store greenhouse gas reduction data so that it can be searched by individual, breeding group, farm, or calculation period.

[0723] For example, the data storage unit can index greenhouse gas reduction data based on individual identification number, breeding group number, farm number, calculation period, and carbon dioxide equivalent.

[0724] The above greenhouse gas reduction data can be aggregated by individual, breeding group, or farm in a subsequent greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18) and used to calculate the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and reduction target achievement.

[0725] In addition, the above greenhouse gas reduction data can be used as basic data for generating a certification dataset in the certification linkage step (S19).

[0726] According to the present invention, the feed amount, actual intake amount, weight change amount, and carbon dioxide equivalent amount can be integrated into a single data structure through the reduction data generation step (S17).

[0727] Accordingly, the feeding effect of the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants under Paragraph 2 can be clearly recorded as individual greenhouse gas reduction data, and subsequently, it is possible to manage the cumulative greenhouse gas reduction performance and generate verification data related to carbon credits.

[0728] The greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18) of the present invention is a step of calculating a cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) by aggregating greenhouse gas reduction data stored in the data storage unit by individual, breeding group, or farm, calculating a greenhouse gas reduction rate by comparing the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) with a reference greenhouse gas emission, and calculating the degree of achievement of the reduction target by comparing the greenhouse gas reduction rate with a pre-set greenhouse gas reduction target.

[0729] The greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18) is a step of calculating the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) by aggregating greenhouse gas reduction data stored in the data storage unit by individual, breeding group, or farm, calculating the greenhouse gas reduction rate by comparing the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) with the reference greenhouse gas emissions, and calculating the degree of achievement of the reduction target by comparing the greenhouse gas reduction rate with a pre-set greenhouse gas reduction target.

[0730] The aforementioned cumulative CO₂ equivalent (CO₂eq) may refer to the sum of CO₂ equivalents included in one or more greenhouse gas reduction data over a certain period. For example, a central data management server may calculate the cumulative CO₂eq per individual by summing the CO₂eq per individual on a daily, monthly, quarterly, or yearly basis. Additionally, the cumulative CO₂eq per rearing group or per farm may be calculated by summing the cumulative CO₂eq of multiple individuals.

[0731] The above reference greenhouse gas emissions may refer to the estimated greenhouse gas emissions when the methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains of paragraph 2 is not fed. The above reference greenhouse gas emissions may be set based on the same livestock species, body weight, rearing period, feed intake, or productivity conditions.

[0732] The above greenhouse gas reduction rate can be calculated as the ratio of the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent to the reference greenhouse gas emissions. For example, if the reference greenhouse gas emissions are 1,000 kg CO₂eq and the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent is 200 kg CO₂eq, the greenhouse gas reduction rate can be calculated as 20%.

[0733] The achievement of the above reduction target can be calculated as the ratio of the actual greenhouse gas reduction rate to the pre-set greenhouse gas reduction target. For example, if the pre-set reduction target is 25% and the actual greenhouse gas reduction rate is 20%, the achievement of the reduction target can be calculated as 80%.

[0734] Through this step, the present invention can accumulate and manage greenhouse gas reduction performance step-by-step from the individual unit to the farm unit, and can quantitatively evaluate the actual reduction level compared to the set reduction target.

[0735] The greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18) is a step of calculating the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) by aggregating greenhouse gas reduction data stored in the data storage unit by individual, breeding group, or farm, calculating the greenhouse gas reduction rate by comparing the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) with the reference greenhouse gas emissions, and calculating the degree of achievement of the reduction target by comparing the greenhouse gas reduction rate with a pre-set greenhouse gas reduction target.

[0736] The central data management server above retrieves greenhouse gas reduction data stored in the data storage unit during the reduction data generation step (S17). The greenhouse gas reduction data retrieved at this time may include individual identification information, rearing group information, farm information, calculation period information, feed amount information, actual feed intake information, body weight change information, and carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) information.

[0737] The central data management server mentioned above can first classify greenhouse gas reduction data by aggregation target. The aggregation targets can be set by individual, breeding group, or farm.

[0738] Aggregation by individual can be performed by summing greenhouse gas reduction data corresponding to a single individual identification number over a period. For example, the daily CO₂ equivalent (CO₂eq) of a specific individual can be summed for 30 days to calculate the monthly cumulative CO₂ equivalent of that individual.

[0739] Aggregation by rearing group can be performed by summing the greenhouse gas reduction data of multiple individuals belonging to the same rearing group. For example, the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent per rearing group can be calculated by summing the individual carbon dioxide equivalents calculated for 100 ruminants belonging to the same non-army group.

[0740] Farm-specific aggregation can be performed by summing greenhouse gas reduction data from multiple rearing groups or multiple individuals belonging to a single farm. For example, the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent for each farm can be calculated by summing the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalents of the first, second, and third rearing groups within a single farm.

[0741] The above cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) is the sum of the carbon dioxide equivalents included in one or more greenhouse gas reduction data over a certain calculation period. The calculation period can be set daily, weekly, monthly, quarterly, yearly, or for the entire rearing period.

[0742] The above central data management server can calculate the greenhouse gas reduction rate by comparing the calculated cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) with the reference greenhouse gas emissions.

[0743] The above reference greenhouse gas emissions may refer to the greenhouse gas emissions expected to occur when the methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains under Paragraph 2 is not fed. The above reference greenhouse gas emissions may be established based on conditions of feeding general grain feed, existing management conditions, past emissions per farm, or average emissions per rearing group.

[0744] The above greenhouse gas reduction rate can be calculated as the ratio of cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) to baseline greenhouse gas emissions.

[0745] For example, if the baseline greenhouse gas emissions are 1,000 kg CO₂eq and the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent is 200 kg CO₂eq, the central data management server can calculate the greenhouse gas reduction rate as 20%.

[0746] The above greenhouse gas reduction rate can be calculated according to the following relationship.

[0747] Greenhouse gas reduction rate (%) = Cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) / Baseline greenhouse gas emissions × 100

[0748] The above central data management server can calculate the degree of achievement of the reduction target by comparing the calculated greenhouse gas reduction rate with a pre-set greenhouse gas reduction target.

[0749] The above greenhouse gas reduction targets may be set per individual, per rearing group, or per farm, for example, as reduction targets of 10%, 15%, 20%, or 30%. In addition, the above greenhouse gas reduction targets may be set as daily, monthly, quarterly, yearly, or per rearing period.

[0750] The achievement of the above reduction target can be calculated as the ratio of the actual greenhouse gas reduction rate to the pre-set greenhouse gas reduction target.

[0751] For example, if the set greenhouse gas reduction target is 25% and the actual greenhouse gas reduction rate is 20%, the central data management server can calculate the reduction target achievement rate as 80%.

[0752] The degree of achievement of the above reduction target can be calculated according to the following relationship.

[0753] Achievement of Reduction Target (%) = Actual Greenhouse Gas Reduction Rate / Set Greenhouse Gas Reduction Target × 100

[0754] The central data management server can generate the calculated cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and reduction target achievement rate as reduction performance data by individual, breeding group, or farm.

[0755] The above reduction performance data may include individual identification information, breeding group information, farm information, calculation period information, baseline greenhouse gas emissions, cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent, greenhouse gas reduction rate, and degree of achievement of reduction targets.

[0756] The above central data management server can store the generated reduction performance data in the data storage unit.

[0757] In addition, the central data management server can determine whether the reduction performance data corresponds to a pre-set abnormal condition. For example, if the greenhouse gas reduction rate is less than 0% or exceeds 100%, if the achievement of the reduction target is calculated to be abnormally high, or if the reference greenhouse gas emissions are omitted, the reduction performance data can be classified as erroneous data or marked as subject to re-verification.

[0758] By means of the above greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18), the present invention can manage the carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) calculated at the individual ruminant unit by extending it to greenhouse gas reduction performance by rearing group or farm.

[0759] Accordingly, the feeding effect of the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to paragraph 2 can be quantified as a greenhouse gas reduction performance at the farm operation unit, and can subsequently be used as basic data to generate a certification dataset in the certification linkage step (S19).

[0760] Furthermore, this step does not stop at simply calculating greenhouse gas reduction performance, but enables the quantitative management of the level of carbon neutrality achieved in the ruminant rearing process by comparing it with baseline greenhouse gas emissions and established reduction targets.

[0761] The certification linkage step (S19) of the present invention is a step of generating a certification dataset including the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and reduction target achievement degree calculated in the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18), and storing the certification dataset in a data storage unit so that the certification dataset can be used as verification data for low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction project registration, carbon reduction certification, carbon emission allowance registration, or carbon emission allowance trading.

[0762] The certification linkage step (S19) is a step of generating a certification dataset including the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and reduction target achievement rate calculated in the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18), and storing the certification dataset in a data storage unit so that the certification dataset can be used as verification data for low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction project registration, carbon reduction certification, carbon emission allowance registration, or carbon emission allowance trading.

[0763] The above-mentioned authentication dataset is a bundle of data generated based on the result value calculated in the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18), and includes information that can be used for confirming, verifying, and managing reduction performance.

[0764] The above-mentioned certification dataset may include cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and reduction target achievement as mandatory items. If necessary, the certification dataset may further include individual identification information, herd information, farm identification information, feeding period information, feed amount information, actual intake information, body weight change information, baseline methane emission information, actual methane emission information, and methane reduction amount information.

[0765] The central data management server organizes the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent, greenhouse gas reduction rate, and reduction target achievement level generated in the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18) into a single authentication dataset and stores it in the data storage unit.

[0766] The above certification dataset can be used as basic data to verify reduction performance in verification procedures related to low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction project registration, carbon reduction certification, carbon emission allowance registration, or carbon emission allowance trading.

[0767] Accordingly, the present invention does not limit the feeding effect of the methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains of claim 2 to a simple management effect, but converts it into greenhouse gas reduction performance data and links it with the carbon-neutral livestock and carbon reduction certification system.

[0768] The certification linkage step (S19) of the present invention is a step of generating a certification dataset including the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and reduction target achievement degree calculated in the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18), and storing the certification dataset in a data storage unit so that the certification dataset can be used as verification data for low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction project registration, carbon reduction certification, carbon emission allowance registration, or carbon emission allowance trading.

[0769] The above central data management server can retrieve reduction performance data generated in the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18).

[0770] The above reduction performance data may include at least the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and the degree of achievement of reduction targets.

[0771] The central data management server can generate an authentication dataset using the above reduction performance data.

[0772] The above-mentioned certification dataset is a data set capable of verifying greenhouse gas reduction performance, and may include at least cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and information on the degree of achievement of reduction targets.

[0773] Additionally, the authentication dataset may include one or more of the following information as needed.

[0774] The central data management server can verify whether each data included in the above-mentioned authentication dataset is missing, including calculation period information, reference greenhouse gas emission information, methane reduction amount information, applied greenhouse gas conversion factor information, feed amount information, feed intake information, body weight change information, and starch gelatinization rate information.

[0775] For example, you can check whether cumulative carbon dioxide equivalents (CO₂eq) exist, whether the greenhouse gas reduction rate is within the normal range, and whether the degree of achievement of the reduction target has been calculated.

[0776] The above central data management server can store verified authentication datasets in the data storage unit.

[0777] The above data storage unit can store the authentication dataset by classifying it by calculation period, breeding group, or farm.

[0778] For example, it can be stored by period, such as the authentication dataset for the first quarter of 2027, the authentication dataset for the second quarter of 2027, and the annual authentication dataset for 2027.

[0779] In addition, it can be stored by management unit, such as the first farm certification dataset, the second farm certification dataset, the beef cattle herd certification dataset, and the dairy cow herd certification dataset.

[0780] The above certification dataset can be used as verification data to confirm greenhouse gas reduction performance.

[0781] Specifically, the above certification dataset can be used as basic data for confirming and verifying greenhouse gas reduction performance required in the process of low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction project registration, carbon reduction certification, carbon emission allowance registration, or carbon emission allowance trading.

[0782] In addition, the above-mentioned certification dataset can be used as historical data to manage greenhouse gas reduction performance accumulated over a certain period, and can be used as basic data to evaluate the level of carbon-neutral operation at the farm level.

[0783] By means of the above certification linkage step (S19), the present invention can structure and store the methane reduction effect calculated by feeding the puffed grain-based methane reduction feed for ruminants according to claim 2 into a certifiable form of data.

[0784] Accordingly, the carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq) calculated from individual methane reductions can be managed as farm-level greenhouse gas reduction performance, and based on this, it can be linked to low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction projects, carbon reduction certification, and carbon emission rights management.

[0785] The above authentication dataset can be stored to maintain the traceability of data generated in the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15), carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16), reduction data generation step (S17), and greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18).

[0786] According to the carbon emission rights management method of the present invention, the methane reduction feed for ruminants based on puffed grains of claim 2 is fed to an actual individual, and the amount of methane reduction can be calculated by linking the feeding amount, intake amount, change in body weight, and starch gelatinization rate information.

[0787] In addition, by converting the calculated methane reduction amount into carbon dioxide equivalents (CO₂eq) and managing them cumulatively by individual, breeding group, or farm, the methane emission reduction effect in the livestock sector can be quantitatively managed.

[0788] Furthermore, by generating greenhouse gas reduction data and certification datasets, the present invention can be utilized as verification data for low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction project registration, carbon reduction certification, carbon emission rights registration, or carbon emission rights trading, thereby contributing to carbon-neutral livestock operations and greenhouse gas reduction in the livestock sector.

Claims

Claim 1 A method for manufacturing a methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains, comprising: a raw material preparation step (S1) of preparing raw grains comprising 40% by weight of corn, 30% by weight of barley, 10% by weight of wheat, 10% by weight of sorghum, and 10% by weight of oats, and removing foreign substances; a moisture control step (S2) of supplying water or steam to the raw grains obtained from the raw material preparation step to control the moisture content to 10 to 20% by weight; and maintaining the raw grains obtained from the moisture control step in a sealed aging tank under conditions of 10 to 40°C for 30 minutes to 12 hours, wherein the interior of the sealed aging tank is 0.1 to 0.A ripening step (S3) for homogenizing the moisture distribution inside the grain by repeating the process of reducing pressure to 8 atmospheres and then increasing pressure to 1 to 3 atmospheres at least twice; a puffing treatment step (S4) for producing puffed grain with an increased starch gelatinization rate by extrusion puffing the raw grain ripened through the ripening step at 120 to 220°C and 5 to 30 bar; an expansion formation step (S5) for forming a porous structure by instantaneously reducing pressure while discharging the puffed grain treated through the puffing treatment step to the outside through the extruder outlet; a drying step (S6) for drying the puffed grain that has undergone the expansion formation step (S5) to adjust the moisture content to 8 to 14 weight%; a grinding step (S7) for grinding the puffed grain dried through the drying step; and after the grinding step (S7), 60 weight% of the puffed grain ground through the grinding step (S7), 15 weight% of soybean meal, DDGS (Distillers Dried A method for manufacturing a methane-reducing feed for ruminants based on puffed grains, characterized by comprising: a mixing step (S8) of preparing a mixture by mixing 5% by weight of Grains with Solubles, 5% by weight of alfalfa hay powder, 5% by weight of timothy hay powder, 3% by weight of vitamin premix, 2% by weight of mineral premix, 3% by weight of yucca extract, and 2% by weight of quillaja extract; a pelletizing step (S9) of forming the mixture into a pellet shape after the mixing step; and a quality control step (S10) of checking whether the starch gelatinization rate of the pellets formed through the pelletizing step falls within the range of 80 to 98% and selecting only the pellets with a starch gelatinization rate of 80 to 98% as methane-reducing feed. Claim 2 A puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants manufactured by the method of claim 1, wherein the feed comprises 60% by weight of puffed grain having a starch gelatinization rate of 80 to 98%, 15% by weight of soybean meal, 5% by weight of DDGS (Distillers Dried Grains with Solubles), 5% by weight of alfalfa hay powder, 5% by weight of timothy hay powder, 3% by weight of vitamin premix, 2% by weight of mineral premix, 3% by weight of yucca extract, and 2% by weight of quillaja extract, and is formed into a pellet form. Claim 3 A method for managing carbon emission rights using the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to claim 2, wherein the method is performed by a carbon-neutral livestock operation system comprising a livestock identification sensor, an electronic scale sensor, an automatic feeding device, a central data management server, and a data storage unit, wherein the feed feeding step (S11) of feeding the puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants according to claim 2 to individual ruminants; an individual identification step (S12) wherein, for a ruminant that received the feed in the feed feeding step (S11), the livestock identification sensor recognizes an RFID tag, an electronic ear tag, or biometric information to obtain individual identification information and stores the individual identification information in a central data management server; a data collection step (S13) wherein, based on the individual identification information obtained in the individual identification step (S12), the electronic scale sensor measures the change in individual body weight, and the automatic feeding device measures the amount of feed fed and the actual intake amount to generate individual feed feeding data, and then transmits the individual feed feeding data to a central data management server; and the central data management A data linkage step (S14) in which the server matches the individual feed data generated in the data collection step (S13) with starch gelatinization rate information to generate individual feed history data and stores the individual feed history data in a data storage unit; a methane reduction amount calculation step (S15) in which the central data management server calculates the individual feed utilization efficiency using the individual feed history data generated in the data linkage step (S14), calculates the individual standard methane emission and actual methane emission based on the calculated feed utilization efficiency and weight change, and calculates the individual methane reduction amount corresponding to the difference between the standard methane emission and the actual methane emission; and a carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16) in which the central data management server calculates the carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) based on the individual methane reduction amount calculated in the methane reduction amount calculation step (S15).A reduction data generation step (S17) in which the central data management server generates greenhouse gas reduction data including the carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) calculated in the carbon reduction amount calculation step (S16), individual identification information, feed amount information, feed intake information, and body weight change information, and stores the greenhouse gas reduction data in a data storage unit; a greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18) in which the central data management server aggregates the greenhouse gas reduction data stored in the data storage unit by individual, by breeding group, or by farm to calculate the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq), calculates the greenhouse gas reduction rate by comparing the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent amount (CO₂eq) with a reference greenhouse gas emission amount, and calculates the degree of achievement of the reduction target by comparing the greenhouse gas reduction rate with a pre-set greenhouse gas reduction target. A method for managing carbon emission rights using puffed grain-based methane-reducing feed for ruminants, characterized by including: a certification linkage step (S19) in which the central data management server generates a certification dataset including the cumulative carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂eq), greenhouse gas reduction rate, and reduction target achievement degree calculated in the greenhouse gas reduction management step (S18), and stores the certification dataset in a data storage unit so that the certification dataset can be used as verification data for low-carbon livestock certification, greenhouse gas reduction project registration, carbon reduction certification, carbon emission rights registration, or carbon emission rights trading.

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