The NFL came out Tuesday morning via a memo that it has prohibited the use of ammonia and smelling salts before and during all games. In the memo, beginning this season, teams are prohibited from “providing or supplying ammonia in any form.” That includes ammonia capsules, inhalers, ammonia in a cup, and any form of “smelling salts.” It applies to the entirety of a game, including pregame activities and halftime, and applies in the locker room and on the sideline.
NFL Bans Salt and Ammonia Use During Games
According to the memo, the ban comes as a result of FDA warnings that were issued in 2024. “In 2024, the FDA issued a warning to companies that produce commercially available ammonia inhalants (AIs), as well as to consumers about the purchase and use of AIs, regarding the lack of evidence supporting the safety or efficacy of AIs marketed for improving mental alertness or boosting energy.”
The FDA noted potential negative effects from AI use. AIs also have the potential to mask certain neurological signs and symptoms, including some potential signs of concussion. As a result, the NFL Head, Neck, and Spine Committee recommended prohibiting the use of AIs for any purpose during the game.
Smelling salts have been used by NFL players as a stimulant. The long use of salts, ammonia capsules, and inhalers will come to an end with the ban that includes coaches, team physicians, athletic trainers, and strength and conditioning coaches, among other team personnel.
During Fred Warner’s interview with the NFL Network, 49ers Tight End George Kittle interrupted the interview with the news that the league is banning the use of smelling salts during games. Kittle joked and said, “I’ve been distraught all day, I considered retirement. We’ve got to figure out a middle ground here, guys. Somebody help me out, somebody come up with a good idea. I miss those already.”
Final Thoughts
The NFL was working on the ban for some time and wanted to put it into action since the 2024 season. The NFL finally got the memo into motion and made it official for the upcoming NFL season. Players are not liking this ban. It has been used all across sports, not just the NFL, but the NHL, MLB, and NBA.
