2 weight-loss products sold online found to have banned substances
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Susenji Mofa+ was found to have sennosides, while Fabulous Boom Chocolate Flavour was found to contain sibutramine.
PHOTOS: SFA
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SINGAPORE – Banned substances were found in two weight-loss products being sold on various local e-commerce platforms.
Susenji Mofa+ was found to have sennosides – a medication used to treat constipation – while Fabulous Boom Chocolate Flavour was found to contain sibutramine, which is an appetite suppressant, said the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) on Feb 11.
Sennosides might cause abdominal pain, diarrhoea and low potassium levels, which may lead to muscle weakness or cramps.
Prolonged used of sennosides may overly relax bowel muscles, leading to constipation and dehydration.
Sibutramine is a prescription-only medication for weight loss which has been banned in Singapore since 2010 as it increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
It might also result in seizures, other heart problems and central nervous system disorders, such as psychosis and hallucinations.
Both Susenji Mofa+ and Fabulous Boom Chocolate Flavour are powdered sachets marketed as weight-loss products which supposedly control hunger, help digestion and accelerate one’s metabolism.
SFA has worked with the online e-commerce platforms where these products were sold to remove the listings. The agency has also issued warnings to the respective sellers to stop selling the products.
Based on checks by The Straits Times, both products are still listed on Shopee. Susenji Mofa+ is also available on the seller’s website.
Those found guilty of selling unsafe food products which contain banned substances may be fined up to $5,000. Repeat offenders may be jailed for up to three months, fined up to $10,000, or both.
Consumers who have bought either product are warned against consuming it, said SFA. Those who have already done so and have concerns about their health should seek medical advice.
“Consumers should also exercise caution and be mindful of the risks associated with consuming food bought from unknown or unverified sources, and are advised to seek more information before making any purchase,” said SFA.
