Phytomining for Cobalt: Exploring Plant-Based Solutions for Sustainable Dairy Cow Nutrition

This project explores the use of phytomining technology to address cobalt deficiencies in Scottish dairy cows through the cultivation of cobalt-accumulating plants such as ryegrass, alfalfa, sunflower, and Indian mustard. Cobalt is essential for the synthesis of Vitamin B12 by rumen microbes, and dairy products are a primary source of Vitamin B12 for human consumption in the UK. However, with two-thirds of Scottish soils cobalt-deficient and increasing global demand for cobalt from the electronics industry, finding sustainable alternatives to synthetic cobalt supplements is critical. This study will assess the potential of these plants to provide sufficient cobalt levels when incorporated into low-energy, roughage-rich diets fed to dry cows. By investigating cobalt uptake from various substrates and evaluating the plants' suitability as a direct or blended feed source, the project aims to offer a cost-effective and environmentally friendly solution for cobalt supplementation in dairy farming.