Use of the husk could significantly reduce methane emissions
The patent bagged by the ICAR-National Institute of Animal Nutrition and Physiology, Bengaluru on the use of Tamarind seed husk to ameliorate enteric methane emission in ruminants is a giant step towards reducing the enteric methane emission in livestock.
The research team led by Dr Raghavendra Bhatta, Director, ICAR-NIANP found that the tamarind seed husk contains 13 percent to 15 percent of tannins (a natural polyphenolic compound) and is highly effective in the modulation of rumen fermentation.
The systematic studies in different livestock species have established that about 17 percent to 20 percent in enteric methane emission is achievable by inclusion of Tamarind Seed Husk in the ruminant diet, without any adverse effect.
Grown in more than 50 countries worldwide, the tamarind (Tamarindus indica, commonly known as Imli in Hindi) has deep roots in the culinary heritage across India.
The country alone annually produces more than 98 thousand metric tonnes of tamarind. Its seed is roasted for removing the dark brown outer covering and the white coloured seed is used for extraction of starch.
The Tamarind seed husk is an agricultural waste and is used as a manure and sometimes, biomass fuel in replacement to wood. The husk is relatively inexpensive and costs only Rs 3 to 4 per kilogram.
