“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.”
Another rule specific to dressage also prohibits “decoration” of the horse is not allowed. It is not allowed to “paint” any part of the horse’s body. Coloured wound-spray and ointment is allowed “if necessary.”
USEF is the only national federation to suggest a tweak, suggesting the rule should not penalize a horse which has naturally foamed up after being given a sugar cube, and that coloured ointment may not be used to cover up any existing wound.
Previously this type of concealment ‒ including shoe polish to disguise spur marks ‒ has been left to stewards’ discretion, being not expressly set out in FEI rules.
Marshmallow fluff was invented as a confection in New England about 100 years ago. Nowadays it is popularly available in supermarkets as a spread.
More from News:
