Why do cows have portholes?

The concrete benefits of this practice for agricultural research

• A window open on science

With this device, researchers can observe in real time what is happening in the animal’s stomach. This avoids repeated or invasive interventions. The result:  less stress for the cow , and more data to improve scientific knowledge.

• Better fed animals, therefore healthier

By analyzing the contents of the rumen, it becomes possible to know  which foods are the most digestible , which ones pose problems, or how a change in diet can affect milk production.  It’s a bit like having an integrated nutritional monitor for the animal.

• More environmentally friendly agriculture

Livestock farming is a major emitter of methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Using these observations, researchers can adapt feed to reduce these emissions. This approach contributes to  more sustainable and cleaner agriculture.