2 weight-loss products found to contain banned substance, online listings removed: SFA
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Sibutramine, an appetite suppressant that has been banned here since 2010, was detected in “Choc-Inch (Prime Dark Chocolate)” imported from Canada, and “Fabulous Goals” from Malaysia.
PHOTOS: SINGAPORE FOOD AGENCY
SINGAPORE - Two weight-loss products sold online have been found to contain a banned substance, with the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) warning people not to consume them.
Sibutramine, an appetite suppressant that has been banned here since 2010, was detected in “Choc-Inch (Prime Dark Chocolate)” imported from Canada, and “Fabulous Goals” from Malaysia, the agency said in a statement on Oct 23.
It added that it has worked with online e-commerce platforms to remove listings of the two food products, which come in powdered sachets and were marketed as helping to burn fat, increase metabolism and suppress appetite.
SFA said it has also issued advisories to the respective sellers to stop selling the products immediately.
Checks by The Straits Times on Oct 23 showed neither product listed on major e-commerce platforms here.
Sibutramine was banned due to an increased risk of heart attack and stroke. It can cause heart problems and central nervous system disorders such as psychosis and hallucinations. It is also known to cause seizures.
Those who have bought the products should not consume them, while those who have consumed the products and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice, SFA said.
It added that consumers should also be mindful of the risks associated with eating food bought from unknown or unverified sources, and should seek more information before making any purchase.
Those who have any information on the sale and supply of these food products can contact SFA at www.sfa.gov.sg/feedback.
