BETA NOPS
The NOPS feed assurance scheme was developed to cut the risks of naturally occurring prohibited substances , such as those found opium poppies grown in the UK , which sometimes contaminated your horse feed and supplements . It was introduced by BETA just over 10 years ago in response to an increase in positive dope tests in the racing sector .
Only feed and supplement manufacturers that have signed up to the code are allowed to display the
NOPS logo on the packaging . More than 90 companies , including all leading feed and supplement manufacturers , are in the scheme , which acts as verification to show that the risks of potential contamination have been addressed at every stage of the manufacturing process , from the sourcing of raw materials to packing up and shipping out .
BETA NOPS is endorsed by the British Horseracing Authority , National Trainers Federation and British Equestrian Federation , which is now
advising squad members – including Start and Potential – to use only feed that is NOPS-registered .
It also offers important protection for all those who compete or race under rules . However , it would be best if you remembered that the code does not provide a 100 % guarantee that a feed is entirely free from naturally occurring contaminants such as specific weeds or seeds . Still , it is a promise that every possible step has been taken to minimise the risk of that happening .
DID YOU KNOW
To avoid a positive test , take care when eating and drinking around your horse , as chocolate , coffee , and tea contain caffeine , theobromine and theophylline – substances classed as NOPS .
BETA NOPS for Bedding
This exciting , new code is one to watch out for later this year ! It is a brand-new assurance scheme designed to help minimise the risk of naturally occurring prohibited substances turning up in all types of equine bedding .
It has been introduced following the success of the NOPS code for feed and will help to bring peace of mind to riders and trainers by ensuring that bedding products are manufactured and packaged in ways that conform to current best practice .
For the first time , horse owners will be able to buy their bedding safe in the knowledge that it has undergone the same degree of scrutiny that their horse ' s feed receives .
EVERYTHING HORSE MAGAZINE : MAY 2021 • 29