Meat Contamination

In certain regions in the world, there exists a risk of local food being contaminated with prohibited substances as part of the production process.

Steroids can sometimes be used to fatten up cattle and other animals bred for meat in specific countries. Anabolic steroids are prohibited for players at all times.

If consumed, the steroid can show up in anti-doping tests and in some cases, under World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) rules, may result in a mandatory provisional suspension while it is investigated.

WADA has warned that clenbuterol, ractopamine, zilpaterol and zeranol or its metabolite(s), are used in Mexico, China, and Guatemala as a growth promoter for cattle, lamb, poultry, and swine. In addition, we have seen a small number of cases involving boldenone in Colombia.

As such, players are urged to understand the risks of eating meat in these countries during tournaments and seek other sources of protein (such as plant-based, or fish) where possible.

If consuming meat in these countries, here are some things you can do:

• Keep your Whereabouts up to date (if you are required to submit it), to show where you are travelling to, and when
• If you decide to eat meat products, try to consume only from the tournament venue and hotel
• Avoid street vendors and temporary or untraceable vendors
• Inquire about the source of meat, if possible; note the name and location of the restaurant
• Keep receipts from all meals and consider taking photos of them
• Eat with other players
• Keep a detailed food log while travelling. In the unlikely event of a positive test due to meat contamination, this information will assist with any investigation

Although restaurants or hotels may display certificates of meat authenticity, these may not meet WADA standards of identification.

As always, the ITIA team is on hand to offer guidance to players and their support personnel. Please contact us for further assistance, or to ask any questions about the TADP, Prohibited List, or to seek guidance on any anti-doping topic.