WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
Loose Regulation: Food supplements are not as strictly regulated as medications. The risk of consuming a supplement contaminated with Prohibited Substances is high, even if those substances are not listed on the label. Producers and marketers can include information on the labels that is not controlled
Hidden Contaminants (Contamination): Contamination may occur, for example, in the production process, or Prohibited Substances may be added deliberately to increase the effect of the product Production errors or deliberate additions can introduce WADA‑banned substances—even if the label says otherwise.
Recent findings from a study commissioned by Sport Integrity Australia showed that one-third of sport supplements contained a prohibited substance, out of 200 products tested in Australia. This poses a significant risk to young athletes who could inadvertently test positive for doping.
Health risks: Other types of contaminants (e.g. heavy metals or microbial load) may also be present, and exceeding the dosage can have adverse health effects, especially in developing bodies. It is also important to note that the long-term effects of many supplements are not fully understood.
Always remember: one contaminated supplement can cost you your career. You're in Control… and Accountable
Under WADA’s strict liability rule, you’re fully responsible for anything in your body. A positive test, even from an unlisted contaminant in a supplement advertised as being “Athlete Safe,” can lead to severe sanctions (up to 4 years of ineligibility).
Eat Real Food
Use your diet as the primary source of nutrients. The only way to avoid the risk of contaminated nutritional supplements completely is to avoid using these products.
Consult a sports nutritionist for tailored meal plans.
Use Supplements Sparingly
Should any supplement be considered to supplement a diet, it should ideally be justified through medical test results and review by a doctor or nutritionist.
Only on advice from your doctor or qualified nutritionist.
LOWERING YOUR RISK: SMART CHOICES
Pick Certified Products
Look for third‑party testing from programs like Cologne List, NSF Sport, or Informed Sport.
Note: Certification reduces—but doesn’t eliminate—risk.
Verify Medications
For vitamins/minerals in pill form, check GlobalDRO’s Medication Inquiry Service.
Keep Records
Save every supplement package, label, and batch number.
Store a few pills separately in case of a test inquiry.
Prioritize: Food first—supplements second.
Consult: Speak with your team doctor or a certified sports nutritionist.
Confirm: Verify each supplement via a trusted third‑party batch testing program or your NADO.
Document: Keep packaging, batch codes, and a sample of each supplement you use.
For questions or support, send an email to: antidoping@fiba.basketball.
Disclaimer: This information provides general guidance only. It does not replace professional medical or legal advice. Always consult qualified experts before starting any supplement regimen. FIBA and its affiliates are not responsible for individual supplement choices or outcomes.