Key takeaways
- Sellers and suppliers should note that the supply of health products must be in line with applicable health product regulations. The HSA will not hesitate to publish information on adverse effects of health products, which may result in negative publicity for the sellers and suppliers.
- Anyone who supplies adulterated health products in Singapore may face a fine of up to SGD 100,000 and/or imprisonment for up to three years.
In more detail
The HSA's analysis of "88 Total White Underarm Cream", "Sausando Cellulite Pills" and "Pelangsing Double Strong" revealed that these products contained banned or potent ingredients, including sibutramine (a banned weight loss medicine) and high levels of mercury (a toxic heavy metal prohibited for use in cosmetic products).
These products were found to be available for sale on local e-commerce platforms and at a local retail shop. The HSA has since worked with e-commerce platform administrators to remove the affected listings and take enforcement action against the respective sellers. All stocks at the local retail store have also been seized by the HSA.
The HSA advises consumers to exercise caution when purchasing health products online or from unfamiliar sources. It also encourages consumers to buy only from reputable pharmacies or retailer websites, or those with an established presence in Singapore.
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