The Energy Gel Misinformation – Why Retailers Need to Be Careful
A major new study has exposed shocking discrepancies in the carbohydrate content of energy gels. Some brands contain far less energy than they claim, putting endurance athletes at serious risk of under-fueling.
For premium retailers selling sports nutrition, this isn’t just about performance—it’s about trust. If you’re stocking products with inaccurate labeling, you’re risking customer complaints, product returns, and reputational damage.
The Study: What the Science Reveals
A study published in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism analyzed energy gels from multiple brands.
- Two brands contained 71% less energy and 72% fewer carbohydrates than labeled—a critical failure that could ruin an athlete’s race.
- Other brands also underreported their actual carb content, meaning athletes fueling based on label claims could hit the wall unexpectedly.
The Right Brands to Stock: Science, Trust & Performance
Not all sports nutrition brands cut corners. Some go above and beyond to ensure scientific accuracy, quality control, and athlete trust.
✅ Neversecond – Founded by Dr. Asker Jeukendrup, one of the world’s leading sports nutrition scientists, Neversecond is built on scientific rigor. Their fueling strategy follows evidence-based carb intake recommendations, and their products are tested extensively to ensure accuracy and consistency.
✅ Pillar Performance – Backed by the Australian Institute of Sport and Informed Sport certified, Pillar ensures the highest standards in performance supplements. Their formulas are used by elite endurance athletes and validated by sports scientists.
✅ Western European Food Standards – Unlike some brands that outsource production to lower-cost facilities, Neversecond and Pillar adhere to Western European food safety regulations and labor protections, ensuring a higher-quality product.
What you can do to cut the risk!
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Audit Your Brands – Are you stocking energy gels with verified label claims?
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Educate Your Customers – Share fueling strategies based on real science, not misleading marketing.
- Partner with Trusted Suppliers – Brands like Neversecond and Pillar Performance offer proven, high-quality nutrition athletes can rely on.