Norwegian athletes advised to avoid meat in China over doping concerns

OSLO: Norwegian athletes heading to China for upcoming track and field events have been warned against consuming any type of meat while in the country due to fears of unintentional doping. Olympiatoppen, the organization responsible for training Norway’s elite athletes, issued the guidelines ahead of major competitions in May, including the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou and the Diamond League meeting in Shanghai.

The warning stems from concerns that meat in China may contain clenbuterol, a banned substance sometimes used illegally to promote animal growth. According to Olympiatoppen, even a small amount of contaminated meat could lead to a positive doping test.

“Studies have shown that athletes have inadvertently ingested clenbuterol when eating meat in China,” the organization stated. “Therefore, Olympiatoppen advises athletes to avoid all types of meat while in China.”

Henriette Jaeger, bronze medallist in the 400 metres at this year’s World Indoor Championships, confirmed she will follow the recommendation. “I really enjoy eating meat, and it’s very good for the body when you’re going to compete,” she told NRK. “But you have to listen to the professionals and trust them.”

Reuters has contacted World Athletics and the Chinese Athletics Association for comment.(Reuters)