Clean Sport
We test every batch
At CURAFYT, we do our utmost to strive for the highest possible quality for our products. Given the strict anti-doping legislation during competitions, we try to be as transparent as possible towards our customers regarding the ingredients we use in our products. The ingredient list is mentioned on the packaging and website.
Clean Sport and the Responsible Use of Supplements in Equine Sports
Concerning herbal ingredients, we base ourselves on the NOPS scheme of the British Equestrian Trade Association.
A sample from every batch is tested at a certified laboratory (LCH in France) for banned substances, including caffeine, theobromine, theophylline, atropine, scopolamine, morphine, methylbufotenine, dimethyltryptamine, bufotenine, hordenine, thebaine, and codeine.
At CURAFYT, the "Clean Sport" label signifies that, to our knowledge, the formula complies with the NOPS scheme of BETA and that a sample from the batch has been screened for the aforementioned banned substances.
However, we emphasize that any Person Responsible who uses supplements or herbal remedies for their horse does so at their own risk of committing an Equine Anti-Doping and Controlled Medication Regulations (EADCMRs) violation. Persons Responsible should exercise extreme caution and judgment in selecting products and ensure that all members of their Support Personnel are informed about the risks associated with administering supplements or herbal remedies to horses.
Update on MSM as prohibited substance in competitive horse racing.
Last updated: November 2023.
Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is a naturally occurring sulfur compound widely used in equine supplements to support joint health and promote overall well-being.
Regulatory Status of MSM in Equine Sports
- The FEI maintains an Equine Prohibited Substances List (EPSL) to ensure fair competition and horse welfare. In 2023, MSM was proposed to be added as a controlled medication on this list. However, after industry feedback, the FEI decided not to include MSM in the 2024 EPSL, allowing its continued use in international equine sports.
- The International Federation of Horseracing Authorities (IFHA) has set an International Residue Limit (IRL) for MSM at 1,200 micrograms per milliliter (µg/mL) in urine samples, reflecting its recent classification as a prohibited substance in competitive horse racing.
Implications for Horse Owners and Trainers
The International Residue Limit (IRL) for MSM provides a buffer for minimal presence, but it is ultimately the responsibility of horse owners and trainers to manage their horses' total exposure to MSM. This includes monitoring all potential sources of MSM intake, such as dietary supplements, feed additives, and topical applications. Exceeding the IRL can result in disqualification and other penalties, underscoring the need for careful management.
When used as directed, Curafyt’s MSM-based products (Smooth&Supple, Detox&Drain, Steady&Stable and Guts&Glory) are formulated to stay well within safe limits, provided the daily recommended dosage is respected.
Factors Influencing MSM Levels
Several factors can affect MSM concentrations in a horse's system:
- Dosage and Administration: Higher doses or frequent use of MSM supplements can increase urinary concentrations.
- Metabolism and Excretion Rates: Individual metabolic rates impact how quickly MSM is processed and eliminated from the horse's system.
- Concurrent Use of Related Compounds: Substances such as Dimethyl Sulfoxide (DMSO) metabolize into MSM, potentially contributing to higher overall levels.
Conclusion
MSM supports optimal health in horses and is currently allowed in competitive equine sports within specific regulatory limits. However, responsible management of MSM intake is essential to ensure compliance with these regulations and maintain optimal horse health.