Concerns Over Prohibited Substances in Dietary Supplements Sold Online
Recent monitoring by Roskachestvo has unveiled alarming findings regarding the sale of dietary supplements on Russian marketplaces. Over 400 biologically active additives (BAA) containing prohibited substances, including coca leaves, kava-kava, ephedra, and tribulus terrestris, were identified. This raises serious health concerns as many of these substances are associated with significant health risks, including addiction and potential overdose. Notably, more than 60,000 dietary supplements were found to be sold without the necessary state registration certificates, heightening the risk of harmful side effects among consumers.
Experts warn that the presence of high concentrations of vitamins D and B12 in some supplements can lead to overdose, while other products are disguised as dietary supplements when they may actually be medications. Gastroenterologist Ekaterina Kashukh emphasized the dangers of these substances, stating that regular consumption of coca leaves can lead to severe health issues like heart attacks and strokes. Moreover, the misuse of tribulus terrestris can cause allergic reactions and other serious side effects, highlighting the need for stricter regulation in this sector.
The Regulatory Landscape and Consumer Safety
The opaque nature of the dietary supplement market in Russia poses significant risks to consumer safety. A survey revealed that nearly half of the Russian population has used dietary supplements, with 13% purchasing them from online marketplaces. These platforms often lack rigorous oversight, allowing sellers to circumvent regulations through various schemes, such as misrepresenting product categories or using forged compliance documents.
Elena Nevolina, executive director of the Pharmacy Guild, pointed out the dangers of purchasing dietary supplements from marketplaces, where the seller bears responsibility while the marketplace itself is shielded from liability. This lack of accountability can lead to consumers unknowingly buying products that may contain harmful substances. In response to these issues, the State Duma has initiated a bill aimed at regulating the circulation and prescription of dietary supplements, which, if passed, will ensure that only safe and registered products are available to consumers.
- The rise of dietary supplements in Russia reflects a growing trend where individuals seek alternative health solutions, often without fully understanding the potential risks involved. Given that many of these products are marketed without sufficient oversight, consumers are urged to exercise caution and prefer purchasing supplements from reputable pharmacies that adhere to safety standards. The proposed bill in the State Duma is a proactive step towards enhancing consumer protection, ensuring that dietary supplements meet established quality standards before being available for sale. This legislative move aims to curb the sale of low-quality supplements and enhance the overall safety of health products in the market.
