Module 2: Naturally Occurring and Other Prohibited Substances (NOPS)
By the end of this module, you should feel confident explaining:
- What NOPS are and how contamination can occur
- Why BETA® NOPS accredited feeds are an important safety choice
- How to help minimise the risk of a positive test through feed management
- Key points to advise customers who compete under rules
- Where SPILLERS fits within the wider NOPS landscape
Watch the training video
Learn from our Quality Manager, Laura Callaghan, and Product Manager, Sarah Nelson, as they break down what Naturally Occurring and Other Prohibited Substances (NOPS) are, why they matter, and the simple steps retailers and horse owners can take to reduce the risk of a positive test.
Why This Matters
Competing in affiliated events means adhering to strict rules set by governing bodies such as the FEI and BEF. All competition horses—no matter their level or discipline—may be tested for prohibited substances at any time.
A positive test can result in:
- Disqualification
- Loss of prize money or medals
- Fines
- Reputational damage
- Loss of sponsorships or future opportunities
Understanding NOPS is essential to safeguarding performance, welfare, and integrity.
What You’ll Learn in This Module
✔ What NOPS Are
Laura Callaghan explains the origins of Naturally Occurring and Other Prohibited Substances, how they can contaminate feed, and why vigilance is essential.
✔ The Importance of BETA® NOPS Approval
Learn how the BETA® NOPS code ensures high standards of manufacturing, ingredient sourcing, and testing to help reduce the risk of contamination.
✔ Practical Ways to Reduce Risk
Sarah Nelson outlines steps that can be taken on yards and in feed rooms to further mitigate the risk of unintentional contamination—including daily routines every horse owner can adopt.
✔ How to Advise Your Customers
Equip yourself with clear, evidence-based information to help customers make safer choices and better understand the value of a BETA® NOPS approved feed.
Congratulations
You’ve now completed the NOPS training video and should have a clearer understanding of what Naturally Occurring and Other Prohibited Substances (NOPS) are, why they matter, and how choosing BETA® NOPS approved feeds can help reduce the risk of a positive test. You should also feel more confident advising customers on practical steps they can take to minimise contamination on yard.
You can now move on to Module 3 which will take you through Nutrients.