Overseas ‘Fastball Foods’ Flagged for Banned Substances
SEOUL – May 9, 2024 – Concerns are growing as numerous fastball foods sold from overseas are found to contain banned substances. A recent examination by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety revealed that these products could pose serious health risks.The findings highlight the need for caution when purchasing health supplements online and highlight the need for diligence from reputable sources.
This report is a pivotal resource for consumers.
Overseas ‘Fastball Foods’ Flagged for Containing Banned Substances
Consumers seeking swift health fixes from overseas online marketplaces may be unknowingly putting their health at risk. A recent inspection by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety revealed that numerous “fastball foods” sold on platforms like Amazon and eBay contain ingredients prohibited for import into the country.
The investigation focused on 45 products heavily marketed to consumers seeking relief from chronic conditions such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. These products,promising quick solutions,were scrutinized for both undeclared ingredients and the presence of substances banned by domestic regulations.
Key Findings: Banned Ingredients Detected
- The inspection targeted 90 ingredients related to blood pressure and blood sugar control, as well as 296 raw materials and ingredients subject to import restrictions.
- While no blood pressure or blood sugar-lowering ingredients were detected, a significant number of products marketed for hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes were found to contain prohibited substances.
Hypertension Products: Hidden Risks
Products marketed for high blood pressure treatment and relaxation were found to contain several concerning ingredients:
- Buchu Leaf: Detected in three products, this ingredient can irritate the stomach and kidneys and potentially cause abortion.
- Andrographis, Arjuna, Indian Pastoral: Each found in one product.
- L-Citrulline: This drug ingredient, used to treat fatigue and lethargy, was also identified in one product.
Hyperlipidemia Products: Vascular Concerns
Products targeting hyperlipidemia were found to contain:
- Horse Chestnut: Found in six products, this pharmaceutical ingredient used for vascular strengthening can cause dizziness, gastrointestinal disorders, headaches, and itching.
- L-Citrulline: Detected in two products.
- Gelatin: Found in two products.
- Western Leaf Water Extract: This can cause side effects such as dizziness, gastrointestinal disorders, headaches, and itching.
- whitebirds: This can cause anaphylaxis to stomach bleeding, kidney disorders, and allergies in aspirin.
Diabetes Products: Liver and Blood Sugar Dangers
Products marketed for diabetes treatment and relief contained:
- Gymnema: Found in nine products, this ingredient is not approved for food use.
- Andrographis: Detected in one product.
- Guggul: Found in five products.
- Gelatin: Found in one product.
- Dangsalcho: this can cause drug-induced hepatitis and, when used with insulin, can lead to dangerously low blood sugar levels.
- Myrrh: This pharmaceutical ingredient, used to treat fatigue and lethargy, was also identified.
Did You Know?
Many herbal supplements can interact negatively with prescription medications. Always consult with a healthcare professional before taking any new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking medication.
Official Warning
Overseas fastball foods purchased by individuals for self -consumption may cause damages caused by risk ingredients.
The Korea Food and Drug Governance
This statement underscores the potential dangers of purchasing unregulated health products from overseas markets.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Pro Tip:
Before buying any health product online, research the manufacturer and look for self-reliant certifications.Check for reviews from other users, but be wary of overly positive or generic reviews, which might potentially be fake.