Research exploring equine nutrition has been recognised by the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) through its Equine Thesis of the Year (TOTY) competition.Lillianne Fenn (pictured below) from ARU Writtle has won the 2026 title for her thesis, An Investigation into Alternative Protein Sources to Soya in Horse Feed: Nutritional and Practical, during the live finals held online on 21 October. Lillianne, Fyona Fay Cowan of SRUC and The University of Glasgow, Coraigh Lynch of the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise, and Evelyn Baker of the Royal Agricultural University, shared their ideas in front of a panel of judges and international audience before the winner was decided.The judging panel would like to congratulate each of the finalists on their interesting theses, said one of the judges, Dr Georgina Crossman. Each demonstrated a real passion for their subjects, all of which had direct application for the equine sector. The finalists represented their institutions exceptionally well, presenting their research articulately and knowledgeably, broadening our horizons and leaving us encouraged that the future of the equine industry is in safe hands.The winner, Lillianne, gave an excellent presentation, demonstrating a depth of knowledge of alternative protein sources to soya in horse feed. She clearly explained the nutritional principles underpinning these alternatives and their practical applications.Prestigious awardBETA has run the competition in its current format for more than 10 years, with its origins traceable back to the late 1990s. Coming up with a thesis that could have an impact on the industry, from whatever angle, is no mean feat, but the 2026 TOTY finalists did this brilliantly, added Claire Williams, Executive Director of BETA. Every year we enjoy reading the applications, hearing the presentations and feeling excited not only about the future of the students who presented, but also about whats to come for the industry, the opportunities ahead of us and different ways of thinking around challenges.The four final presentations are available to watch online, contactagy@beta-uk.org for details.Lead image by ShutterstockRelated contentFifteen facts about feeding balancers to your horseSoaking hay: how to do it correctlyHow to condition safely when feeding your horse this winter *PROMOTION*Horse bedding: types to choose from, best thickness level and money-saving tipsThe post Alternative feeding practices explored in award-winning equine thesis appeared first on Your Horse.