Contaminated molasses was sent from South Africa to Ireland and the United Kingdom, where it was sent to several equine feed companies that used it in their feed production. The molasses, supplied by ED & F Man Ltd, contained Zilpaterol Hydrochloride. Zilpaterol Hydrochloride is considered a banned substance by the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) and the British Horseracing Authority.
Horses that ingested the feed made with contaminated molasses received positive drug tests. Zilpaterol Hydrochloride is a feed additive used in the United States; it is primarily used to promote weight gain in cattle. Zilpaterol isn't harmful to horses, but it isn't approved for use in Europe.
The BEF Board has instated a 14-day moratorium on Zilpaterol positives; any horse that tests for the substance will not be subject to any regulatory action for breaking the anti-doping rules if the positive is consistent with the contaminated feed. The British Horseracing Authority gave a seven-day moratorium for racing; any horse with a Zilpaterol positive will also not be subject to regulatory action, if the sample is consistent with feed contamination.
Elective testing of horses has shown that the contaminated feed clears the horse's system in four days; investigations are ongoing to confirm the withdrawal period.
Horses competing in competitions not regulated by the BEF or BHA are subject to the testing and rules of that governing body.
For a list of contaminated feed and more information, click here.
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