For every rider competing at FEI events or national competitions, the doping-free status of supplements is an absolute priority. A positive doping test can lead to disqualification, suspension and reputational damage, even if you did not intentionally break the rules.
What does FEI-tested mean?
The FEI (Fédération Equestre Internationale) maintains a strict Equine Prohibited Substances List that is regularly updated. A supplement that is 'FEI-tested' has undergone independent laboratory analysis checking all ingredients against this list.
Important: 'FEI-tested' is not the same as 'FEI-approved'. The FEI does not officially approve commercial products. 'FEI-tested' means the manufacturer has had their product analysed by an accredited laboratory with no prohibited substances found.
Which ingredients are risky?
- Certain plant extracts: ginseng, ephedra, ma huang, yohimbe
- High doses of valerian: low doses are usually permitted, but high concentrations are not
- Corticosteroids: present in some joint supplements
- Stimulants: caffeine above certain thresholds
What to check before you buy
Ask your supplier whether products are tested in an accredited laboratory and whether test reports are available on request. Horse Tonic supplements are formulated for competition horses; always check the current FEI rules before competing.
Practical advice for the competition rider
- Always ask for testing documentation from your supplement supplier
- Check ingredient lists for potentially risky substances
- When in doubt: contact the FEI Clean Sport department or your national federation
- Keep all documentation of products used