Consumers seeking quick health solutions through overseas online shopping may be unknowingly putting thier well-being at risk. Teh Ministry of Food and Drug Safety recently revealed that some “fastball foods” sold on international online marketplaces contain raw materials and ingredients prohibited for import into the country.

Targeting chronic Disease Betterment

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted a targeted examination to protect consumers interested in managing chronic conditions. Fifteen products marketed for their purported benefits in treating and alleviating symptoms of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes were selected from popular platforms like Amazon and eBay.

Concerning Findings: Banned Substances Detected

The tests uncovered that 22 products-five marketed for hypertension,eight for hyperlipidemia,and nine for diabetes-contained ingredients restricted domestically. These substances pose potential health risks, raising serious concerns about the safety of these imported goods.

Hypertension Products: Risky Ingredients

Products claiming to treat high blood pressure were found to contain several problematic ingredients:

• Leek Leaves: Not approved for food use, leek leaves can cause stomach and kidney irritation and may induce abortion.
• Chunsimyeon: Specific risks associated with this ingredient were not detailed, but its inclusion raises concerns.
• Arjuna: While traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine, its safety and efficacy require careful evaluation.
• Indian Phosphorus: its use in food products is restricted due to potential health hazards.
• Citroline: Can cause heartburn.

hyperlipidemia Products: Gastrointestinal and Allergic Risks

Products marketed for treating hyperlipidemia contained:

• Whitebird Tree: Can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding or kidney disorders.
• Stomach-Derived Ingredient: The specific ingredient was not named, but its origin raises concerns about potential contamination or adverse effects.
• Western Chil leaves: Potential risks associated with this ingredient require further investigation.
• Mua Foama: While frequently enough promoted as a natural remedy, its safety and efficacy are not fully established.
• Citrullin: Can cause heartburn.

The FDA warns that individuals with aspirin allergies should exercise caution, as whitebird tree can trigger anaphylaxis (a severe systemic allergic reaction).

Diabetes Products: Liver and Blood Sugar Concerns

Products claiming to treat diabetes were found to contain:

• Democracy: This ingredient can cause hepatitis.
• Crimsy: A drug that may cause gastrointestinal disorders,nausea,vomiting,and itching.

The FDA also cautioned that when “democracy” is used with insulin, it can cause blood sugar levels to drop too low, leading to potentially dangerous side effects.

Regulatory Actions and consumer Protection

In response to these findings, the Food and Drug Administration has taken decisive action. they have requested the Customs Service to halt the import of products containing these harmful ingredients and have asked the Korea Communications Commission to block access to the online sales sites offering these products.

Overseas fastball foods purchased by individuals may cause risk damage.

The KFDA

Accessing Safe Food Data

Consumers can access information on safe food products directly from the initial screen of the food safety country website. Detailed information is available for a total of 3,777 products that have been identified as potentially harmful.