The British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) has launched the Equine Nutritionist & Feed Adviser Register (ENFAR) in an attempt to tackle the rise of ‘armchair experts’.
Nutrition is not a protected profession, which means anyone can claim to be sufficiently knowledgeable and experienced enough to advise about a horse’s diet.
The new register is for professional equine nutritionists and feed advisors who continue their professional development. Each person registered will have been assessed and approved by a panel.
“Feed makes up a big part of the equestrian world, and as any horse owner knows, it can be a really complex subject,” said Claire Williams from BETA.
“There are many incredible feed advisers and nutritionists in the industry, but we’re also seeing a rise of ‘armchair experts’ giving advice that isn’t just wrong, it’s potentially dangerous.
“We wanted to do something to address this issue from a wellbeing point of view, at the same time as celebrating the incredible professionals we have.”
Giving horse owners confidence
Dr Katie Williams, vice chair of BETA’s Feed Committee, has led the working party developing ENFAR, as the idea for the register came out of her PhD.
Its aim is to help horse owners choose where to go when seeking advice about feeding.
“Through my research I was able to see the need for a register to give people confidence that members had achieved a minimum standard of knowledge and were adhering to best practices,” said Katie.
“And from the other side, we want to create a community for those working in the feed industry where there is support and CPD [continuing professional development] available.
“Our profession attracts wonderful, dedicated people who want to do their best for horses and their owners, and being able to do promote them all through ENFAR is great for every part of the equestrian industry.”
Categories
People registered on ENFAR will have their information, qualifications and credentials listed.
Membership also requires each nutritionist or advisor to abide by a Code of Conduct and undertake relevant CPD to ensure they remain up to date.
There are two categories.
One is for equine nutritionists who have a degree-level qualification and have spent more than three years in a role related to equine nutrition.
The second category is for feed advisers.
Applicants must submit a CV and online assessment via the BETA website. Applications are then reviewed by the ENFAR Registrations Committee.
ENFAR is now open for applications.
Dr Katie Williams is also hosting a free webinar about ENFAR on 1st July. Register here.
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