Staying on the subject of twitter, and horses, the stream is awash with jokes and puns revolving around horsemeat. This follows the shocking revelation that some supermarket chains in the UK have been found to have horsemeat in their meat produce; mainly mince.
How on earth did this happen? In 2004, it became compulsory to register all horses and other equine 'stock' for a horse passport with the Department of Agriculture. We were told this legislation would be enforced by the Food Standards' Agency; also that the purpose of this 'passport' was to ensure that horses previously treated with medication (and naturally as our animals become older, they are more likely to be under some form of medication) didn't end up in the human food chain.
Here in the United Kingdom, the thought of eating horse meat is as offensive and repulsive as the thought of eating dogs or cats. It may be hypocritical to enjoy beef or pork, yet shun other animal flesh; but if you take that thought to its logical conclusion – where do you draw the line? Soylent Green anyone?
Hopefully those supermarkets who strive to ensure their meat is sourced from British farmers will benefit from this shambles. Better still, more supermarkets ensure they buy from British farmers who treat their animals with respect, and adhere to the guidelines laid down by animal welfare groups, and organisations like Red Tractor Assurance.