“Marshmallow fluff” is to be banned in FEI dressage from January 2022. It is now in regular use at high-level shows, in an attempt to look like naturally-occurring froth and so disguise contact issues.
In the consultation stage of new rules to be ratified next month at the FEI General Assembly in Antwerp, the FEI said there was growing evidence the sugary paste was either syringed into the mouth or spread on the lips.
The new rule reads: “It is strictly forbidden to use any type of white substance around the horse’s mouth to imitate foaming; this is considered cheating and against horse welfare as it can hide lip injuries. This will result in a warning or a yellow card.”