SINGAPORE: Attention all consumers! The Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has issued a stern warning against seven drink products that were recently discovered to contain prohibited medicinal substances. This alarming news, shared on Thursday, November 14, underscores the importance of being vigilant about what we consume.

The problematic products include:

1. Berryshine Pure Enzyme Fiber with Prebiotics

2. BUM Energy Drinks (available in six enticing flavors: Blue Snow Cone, Champion Mentality, Peach Mango, Cherry Frost, Citrus Burst, and Orange Sunrise)

These drinks were found for sale on various local e-commerce platforms, prompting the SFA to collaborate with these sites to ensure their listings are promptly removed. Sellers have also received urgent warnings to cease the sale of these dangerous products immediately.

What's Inside these Products?

The Berryshine drink, marketed as a fiber-rich enzyme product with claims of improving digestion, providing antioxidant benefits, facilitating weight loss, and detoxifying the body, has been identified as containing sennosides—a potent medicinal ingredient typically used to alleviate constipation. Consumers should be aware that the side effects of sennosides can be severe, including abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, and dangerously low potassium levels—leading to muscle weakness and cramps.

Additionally, the Berryshine drink has been misleadingly labeled as a Singaporean product when, in fact, it is manufactured in Malaysia.

On the other hand, the BUM Energy Drinks, which claim to boost mental clarity and performance as pre-workout supplements, were discovered to contain citicoline. This substance is primarily prescribed for treating stroke-related conditions and cognitive impairments. Its side effects may include insomnia, headaches, dizziness, fluctuating blood pressure, diarrhea, and skin rashes. Notably, all flavored BUM Energy Drinks originate from the United States.

The SFA's Stand

The Singapore Food Agency is adamant about public safety and has vowed to take strict enforcement action against anyone found selling or supplying these unsafe food products tainted with banned substances or potent ingredients.

Consumers are strongly advised not to consume any of the implicated products. Should you have consumed these drinks and experience any adverse health effects, the SFA urges you to seek medical attention immediately.

In a world where dubious food products can be just a click away, it's crucial for consumers to conduct thorough research before making purchases from unfamiliar or unregulated sources. Remember, your health should always take precedence!

Stay tuned for more updates, and protect yourself from hidden dangers lurking in everyday products!