Materia Medica Malaysiana

Beware of ‘Swiss-made’ health supplements

The Health Ministry today warned consumers against purchasing popular health supplements which are purportedly manufactured in Switzerland.
In a statement today, it said the products were manufactured locally and not imported from abroad.
"These products, which include Vitamin C, Vitamin C+Collagen, Sheep Placenta and other well-known brands, were produced here by irresponsible people.
"The ministry will not hesitate to take action against those found involved in importing, selling or supplying products which have not been approved by the Drug Control Unit."
It said the ministry had also received many complaints from consumers on the rampant use of unregistered cosmetics at beauty parlours and hair-dressing salons.
"These unregistered products have had dire effects on the skin.
"We advise consumers to be careful of such unethical practices by the operators of beauty centres and clinics."
The statement advised consumers to ensure that the products had valid hologram stickers issued by the Drug Control Unit.
"It is an offence for anyone to possess unregistered products under the Cosmetics and Drug Control Act 1984."
First offenders face a maximum fine of RM25,000 or a three-year jail term or both.
For subsequent offences, they face a maximum fine of RM50,000 and imprisonment of not more than five years or both.
Companies can be fined a maximum of RM50,000 for the first offence and RM100,000 subsequently.