From energy products to electrolytes, ketone supplementation to beta-alanine, a significant percentage of the elite and recreational peloton are seeking a legal helping hand in supplements, often from products proclaiming maximum performance gains for a minimal outlay, which is clearly tempting. But how do you know that the trio of gels you're slurping down each hour each contain 30g of energy-boosting carbohydrate? Or that 20g of muscle-repairing goodness is nestled within a scoop of powder protein? How can you believe what's written on the tub?
A recent study found that sports supplements are used by 64% of cyclists, while research in 2024 discovered that the figure was even higher for female cyclists at 85%. Cyclingnews has looked at the ever-growing supplements industry before, notably the potentially harmful impact of ketones on the pro peloton. But here, we'll dig deep into the rules, regulations and processes that the discerning rider should look for in search of a guaranteed boost (we assure you it's more interesting than that sounds!). First: the very real issue of contamination.
