A new knowledge review provides a systematic overview of recent Norwegian research on sustainable livestock feed. It serves as a tool for researchers and decision-makers when prioritizing future investments and initiatives.
Livestock production is a cornerstone of Norwegian agriculture, but it is also responsible for significant greenhouse gas emissions and resource use. To support a more targeted research effort for a sustainable future, this knowledge review is an important resource.
Commissioned by the Research Council of Norway, researchers from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences (NMBU) and the Norwegian Institute of Bioeconomy Research (NIBIO) have prepared the report:
“Knowledge Review Summarizing Research on Sustainable Livestock Feed in Norway.” (In Norwegian)
The report summarizes Norwegian research on sustainable livestock feed conducted between 2017 and spring 2025.
It provides a comprehensive overview of the scope and focus of previous research on sustainable feed and feed systems in Norway, while also identifying areas where efforts should be intensified.
The project team brought together expertise in sustainability assessments of Norwegian livestock production systems, as well as feed resources and feed production for both monogastric animals and ruminants. The project was led by NMBU researcher Ingjerd Dønnem.
A Unique Overview of Existing Knowledge
The report is based on a thorough review of 381 publications, including scientific articles, reports, and master's and doctoral theses.
“We wanted to create an accessible knowledge base that can be used to prioritize future research and innovation. The report is also intended as a tool to support the Norwegian government's societal mission on sustainable feed,” says Dønnem.
Environmental Sustainability Has Been the Main Focus
One of the key findings is that much of the research has focused on environmental sustainability, particularly how to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from livestock production.
“Feed types such as forage, grazing systems, and concentrate feeds are well covered, and many studies also address the economic aspects of sustainable feed,” says Dønnem.
However, several areas remain insufficiently explored. Social sustainability is one such example, and Dønnem highlights the need for a broader perspective on sustainability.
“While substantial work has been done on environmental and economic sustainability, social sustainability has received limited attention. It is important to include all dimensions of sustainability in order to gain a complete picture,” she says.
The report also shows that new feed ingredients, animal by-products, and circular resource utilization remain underexplored, particularly at larger scales. More research is needed on how new and alternative feed resources can be implemented in practice. This could help reduce Norway’s dependence on imported resources such as soy and promote a more circular use of resources.
Strong Norwegian Research Environment
The report provides clear indications of where future research efforts should be directed to meet the demands of sustainable food production. The goal is to strengthen Norwegian agriculture’s ability to address climate challenges while ensuring food production that is economically, socially, and environmentally sustainable.
The review shows that Norway already has strong research communities and well-established collaboration between institutions. However, the level of international collaboration is moderate, and relatively few studies achieve significant international visibility.
“Collaboration between research institutions, industry, and public authorities will be crucial for developing solutions that both reduce environmental impacts and strengthen Norway’s food self-sufficiency,” says Dønnem.