Players in the NFL are allowed to use smelling salts, as long as they aren't supplied by their teams.
In a recent development, the National Football League (NFL) has announced a new policy regarding the use of smelling salts during games and related activities. The memo, sent out on Wednesday, clarifies that players may still use their personal smelling salts, but teams and club personnel are forbidden from distributing or supplying them.
The ban on smelling salts and related products is in response to a warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 2024, stating that there is no evidence of the products' safety or efficacy, and they may mask symptoms of concussions. The memo obtained by The Associated Press addresses the use of ammonia capsules in addition to smelling salts.
The league's ban only applies to team employees distributing smelling salts during pregame activities, games, and halftime on the sideline or locker rooms. The memo clarifies that the policy does not prohibit player use of smelling salts but restricts clubs from providing or supplying them in any form.
The NFL Players Association (NFLPA) has sent a memo to players clarifying the use of smelling salts and ammonia inhalants. According to the memo, players may use their personal smelling salts brought from outside, but they are not permitted to receive them from their teams or club personnel.
Smelling salts and other related products have been commonly used on NFL sidelines for years, with many players believing they can provide a sudden jolt of energy or alertness. However, the FDA's warning has raised concerns about the potential risks associated with these products.
The NFL has confirmed that the policy does not prohibit player use of smelling salts. The league's memo extends the ban to include products like ammonia capsules, inhalers, and ammonia in a cup, in addition to "smelling salts."
The ban on smelling salts was announced by the league on Tuesday. The NFLPA was not informed about the club policy change before the memo was sent out.
In summary, NFL players can still use smelling salts during games in 2025, but they must bring their own and not receive them from their teams or club personnel. The ban is in response to the FDA's warning about the safety and efficacy of these products and their potential to mask concussion symptoms. The league's ban only applies to team employees distributing smelling salts during pregame activities, games, and halftime on the sideline or locker rooms.
The NFL's new policy restricts team personnel from distributing or supplying smelling salts, following a warning from the FDA about their safety and potential to mask concussion symptoms. Players may still use their personal smelling salts, but they cannot receive them from their teams or club personnel. The ban also includes ammonia capsules, inhalers, and ammonia in a cup. This policy was announced by the league on Tuesday, and it applies to pregame activities, games, and halftime on the sideline or locker rooms. The NFL Players Association has clarified these guidelines for players. Health-and-wellness in the World of sports is a crucial matter, as science continues to uncover potential risks associated with certain products and therapies-and-treatments.
