SFA alerts consumers about the dangers of consuming certain drinks with unapproved medicinal substances.
SINGAPORE – A recent warning from the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has raised serious concerns over seven drink products being sold locally, which have been found to contain medicinal substances not approved for consumption in food products. This alert comes after an investigation uncovered that these beverages, sold via various e-commerce platforms, pose potential health risks to consumers. The affected products include Berryshine Pure Enzyme Fiber with Prebiotics and six flavors of BUM Energy Drinks, all of which were found to contain ingredients that are typically used in medical treatments rather than for general dietary purposes.
The Berryshine Pure Enzyme Fiber with Prebiotics drink, marketed as a health supplement to aid in digestion, contains sennosides, a substance used to treat constipation. While sennosides are effective for their intended purpose, they can cause significant side effects if consumed without proper medical supervision. Common adverse reactions include abdominal pain, spasms, and diarrhea, making this product potentially harmful when used inappropriately. The drink was also found to be falsely labeled as a product of Singapore, when in fact, it was manufactured in Malaysia, raising further concerns about the authenticity and safety of its claims.
In addition, the BUM Energy Drinks, which come in six flavors including Blue Snow Cone, Champion Mentality, and Peach Mango, were found to contain citicoline, a substance commonly used to treat patients suffering from strokes, traumatic brain injuries, and other neurological conditions. While citicoline is a beneficial medication for those in need of cognitive support, its inclusion in energy drinks is problematic. It can cause side effects such as insomnia, dizziness, headaches, changes in blood pressure, and shortness of breath. For healthy individuals, the consumption of citicoline in an energy drink could lead to unnecessary health complications, especially if consumed in excessive amounts or without medical guidance.
The SFA has urged consumers to avoid purchasing or consuming these products and has warned that they may be unsafe for those who are unaware of the medicinal ingredients. In response to the discovery, the agency has launched an investigation into the sale of these products on local e-commerce platforms, where they were being marketed as health and energy-boosting drinks. The SFA has also emphasized that individuals who have already consumed these products and are experiencing any adverse health effects should seek immediate medical attention to prevent further complications.
This situation highlights the increasing risks associated with purchasing health products online, where quality control can sometimes be lax. The SFA’s warning serves as a reminder to consumers to exercise caution when purchasing food and beverage items from unverified or unofficial sources, particularly those claiming to offer health benefits. It also underscores the importance of reading product labels carefully and being aware of the potential risks of consuming substances that may not be suitable for general use. The agency has assured the public that it will continue to monitor such products closely to ensure consumer safety and will take necessary actions against any vendors found selling unsafe products.
