Nordic Methane Index launched for VikingRed and VikingJersey bulls

Breeding cows that permanently emit less methane is now a reality for all three major dairy breeds with the Nordic Methane Index developed by VikingGenetics, the Nordic Cattle Genetic Evaluation (NAV), SEGES Innovation and Aarhus University.

VikingGenetics, in collaboration with the Nordic Cattle Genetic Evaluation (NAV), SEGES Innovation and Aarhus University, is proud to announce the launch of the Nordic Methane Index for VikingRed and VikingJersey bulls with the release of the breeding values for May 2026 by the Nordic Cattle Genetic Evaluation (NAV), expanding the index beyond VikingHolstein (available since May 2025).

The Nordic Methane Index represents an important step in the dairy industry’s efforts to reduce methane emissions through genetics and supports more sustainable, future-oriented dairy farming.

Breeding values for the Methane Index, along with all other traits in the Nordic Total Merit Index (NTM), are calculated by the Nordic Cattle Genetic Evaluation (NAV), an independent organization that ensures objective, reliable, and scientifically based evaluations. NAV’s mission is to carry out joint breeding value evaluations for both dairy and beef cattle across Finland, Sweden, and Denmark, supporting a unified Nordic approach to genetic improvement.

Established in 2002, NAV has continuously developed and refined its joint evaluation system to provide breeders and farmers with accurate tools for sustainable and profitable breeding decisions. NAV is owned by the member organizations Landbrug & Fødevarer, Faba, and Växa Sverige. As an independent evaluation body, NAV guarantees a high level of objectivity and reliability in Nordic cattle genetic evaluations and indices.

Scientific studies show that around 20% of a cow’s methane production is genetically determined, meaning that targeted selection can reduce methane emissions by up to 20% over time.

Methane breeding values have been available for VikingHolstein bulls born after 2008 since the May 2025 proof run, and with the May 2026 release, the Methane Index is now also available for VikingRed and VikingJersey bulls.

The Nordic Methane Index is built on pioneering Nordic research linking cattle methane emissions to genetics, based on more than 16,000 direct measurements collected using methane sniffers in commercial herds. This research shows that methane emissions can be reduced through breeding, with effects that are permanent and cumulative across generations.

• VikingHolstein: 8,000 cows
• VikingJersey: 5,000 cows
• VikingRed: 2,300 cows
• Crossbreds: 700 cows

Advanced statistical methods have been developed to account for natural variation in methane production over time, and ongoing research continues to explore how milk composition and rumen microbiome data can further strengthen the index.

Unlike short‑term mitigation measures, genetic selection creates lasting change, as each generation builds on the progress of the previous one. Solutions such as feed additives or diet changes can lower methane emissions temporarily, but the effect lasts only while they are used. Genetic selection delivers a permanent reduction in emissions that increases with each generation.

In parallel with the Methane Index, Nordic breeding programs also support lower methane emissions through improved feed efficiency, measured by the Saved Feed Index.

Research shows that up to 12% of a cow’s energy is used for methane production. Because feed intake plays a major role in this process, better feed efficiency and a well‑balanced diet mean less energy lost as methane – and therefore lower emissions from the herd.

Together, genetic selection for low methane emissions and improved feed efficiency provides farmers with robust, long‑term tools to support more efficient, profitable, and sustainable dairy production.