Lecture on Nutrition and Equine Feed Safety

Introduction

• Presenter: Veterinarian and passionate nutritionist.
• Topic: Nutrition, focusing on equine feed safety and the role of reputable brands.
• Guest Speakers: Ruth Bishop, Professor Mariel Mo Collier, Dr. Katie Williams.

Presentation 1: Safe Equine Feed

Speaker: Ruth Bishop

• Role: Chair of the Feed Committee, British Equestrian Trade Association (Beta).
• Objective: Discussing responsibilities of brands in providing safe, nutritious horse feed.

Key Points:

• Historical Context: Evolution of horse feeding practices from the Bronze Age.
• Beta's Role: Sets standards and encourages good practice among its 170+ members.
• Historical vs. Modern Diets:
  • Historical diets: High protein and starch, 5 feeds per day.
  • Modern diets: Similar energy and protein, controlled starch content, 3-4 feeds per day.
• Complexity in Feeding:
  • Modern feeding is more complex with forage, main meals, and balancers.
  • Complexity can breed mistrust; Beta works to restore trust.
• Variable Factors:
  • Horse individuality, forage variability, and feeding methods.
• Importance of Responsible Manufacturing:
  • Ensures safety and compliance with regulations.
  • Feed and supplements must be traced and removed if necessary.

Regulatory Framework:

• High Regulation in Feed Manufacturing: Nine major UK and EU regulations.
• Promise of Safety: Commitment to safe, legal, and truthful products.
• Supply Chain Management: Ensures consistent and safe ingredient sourcing.

Presentation 2: Importance of Forage

Speaker: Professor Mariel Mo Collier

• Role: Professor of Equine Science at Hartbury University.
• Objective: Discuss finding the best forage for horses.

Key Points:

• Forage's Role: Foundation for horse health and behavior.
• Nutritional Importance: Provides slow-release energy and supports gut health.
• Choosing Forage:
  • Assess energy needs and health of the horse.
  • Forage types: Grass, hay, halage.
  • Importance of consistent nutrient supply for performance horses.
• Challenges:
  • Variability in nutrient content due to harvesting and environmental factors.
  • Importance of gradual changes in forage to maintain gut health.

Presentation 3: Navigating Misinformation

Speaker: Dr. Katie Williams

• Role: Chair of the Equine Nutrition and Feed Advisor Register Working Group.
• Objective: Addressing misinformation and ensuring reliable advice.

Key Points:

• Challenge of Overconfidence: Many claim to be nutritionists without formal training.
• Importance of Evidence-Based Advice:
  • Highlighted the need for professionals who engage in continuous professional development (CPD).
  • Introduction of a register for equine nutritionists and feed advisors.
• Collaboration with Other Professionals:
  • Importance of working with vets and other professionals to provide comprehensive care.
• Upcoming Developments:
  • Launch of a register to ensure quality and trustworthy advice.

Audience Questions:

• Soaking Hay: Variable impact on reducing water-soluble carbohydrates.
• Impact of Modern Farming: Effects on nutritional value of forages and concentrates.
• Regulatory Requirements: Processes for putting new feeds on the market.

Conclusion

• Panel Discussion: Addressed questions from the audience.
• Importance of Informed Choices: Emphasized the role of regulation and expertise in feed manufacture and advice.