ROP research earns global acclaim in vet sciences
MUSCAT, APRIL 26
A scientific research paper published by the Royal Oman Police (ROP) Scientific Research team in Veterinary World has earned critical acclaim from equine experts and enthusiasts worldwide. It marks the world's first scientific documentation evaluating the effect of the EBN nutritional supplement on Arabian horses.
The paper, published in Veterinary World — a prestigious peer-reviewed journal ranked in the second quartile (Q2) globally — reflects ROP's strong commitment to applied scientific research. It also highlights Oman's rich cultural heritage by weaving in the story of 'Zad al Rakeb' within a scientific and documentary framework.
Speaking to Observer, Lieutenant Colonel Dr Khalid bin Obaid al Khalidi, Assistant Director of the Veterinary Services Department at the Mounted Police Command and the lead researcher, said: 'The Royal Oman Police places great importance on scientific research, guided by the belief that institutional development must be rooted in a solid knowledge base. This achievement is a testament to our commitment to nurturing national talent through collaboration with leading local and international institutions.'
Lt Col Dr Khalid added that the study represents the first global scientific evaluation of the EBN nutritional supplement, prepared using spray-dried technology, on purebred Arabian horses during regular training.
The research compared the EBN supplement with the Premium E supplement, known for its high vitamin E content, to assess impacts on immunity, liver function, muscle condition and physical stress indicators. Results showed that the EBN supplement significantly outperformed Premium E, proving to be a more effective anti-inflammatory and immune booster while avoiding some of the negative effects associated with prolonged vitamin E use.
"This gives our study high scientific value and places it at the forefront of specialised veterinary research worldwide," Lt Col Dr Khalid noted.
Beyond scientific findings, the paper also captures the cultural significance of Arabian horses in Oman. It recounts the historical tale of Zad al Rakeb — gifted by the Prophet Sulaiman (peace be upon him) to Azd Oman — as referenced in Omani historical records and the Omani Encyclopedia, underlining the deep-rooted bond between Omanis and Arabian horses.
The study was conducted under the direct supervision of the Mounted Police Command, in collaboration with Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), the National University of Malaysia (UKM), the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources; and with support from the Research and Studies Centre at the Sultan Qaboos Academy for Police Sciences.
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