Listed experts are rigorously assessed.
The Equine Nutritionist and Feed Adviser Register (ENFAR) – an online place for horse owners to find reliable feeding advice - is up and running.
ENFAR was created by the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) to promote high standards of evidence-based nutritional information for consumers and the industry.
The register, developed by the BETA Feed Committee in a project led by Dr Katie Williams of Dengie, lists equine feeding mentors who have demonstrated knowledge, communication skills and commitment to research and CPD.
For consumers, ENFAR provides a free-to-use hub of verified experts.
Unlike vets and farriers, there is no protected status for the profession of nutritionist. Anyone can call themselves a nutritionist regardless of qualifications or experience - or lack of.
A great deal of widely-available advice, therefore, is of poor quality to the potential detriment of equine welfare – and can damage the credibility of those operating professionally, said a BETA spokesperson.
“Knowing that others shared my concerns, we got together to develop ENFAR under the auspices of BETA, to recognise those who are doing a good job and who horse owners can trust,” says Dr Katie Williams.
“Anyone who is giving advice on feeding and nutrition can apply to join the register, so ultimately it will help to raise standards across different equestrian professions including veterinary personnel, bodyworkers and coaches.”
How to join ENFAR
There are two categories on ENFAR, one for feed advisers and one for equine nutritionists.
To join the register, applicants must commit to engaging in CPD and abide by the ENFAR Code of Best Practice.
Advisers and nutritionists complete a series of online assessments before acceptance.
“The assessment process is designed to ensure that everyone is in the right category and be rigorous enough to ensure a minimum standard of competency and knowledge,” says Claire Williams, executive director of BETA.
“The assessments include technical skills and knowledge but are also looking at how effectively someone can communicate. Ultimately, we want to be sure that the candidate can advise effectively.”
Those on the ENFAR register can be found on the BETA website along with the criteria for both types of members and the assessment procedure. Professionals looking to join the register can also apply online after finding out more about the entry requirements through the website.
For more information on BETA ENFAR, see https://beta-uk.org/about-enfar/. To find ENFAR feed advisers and equine nutritionists, search the directory here https://beta-uk.org/enfar-directory/
