Popular 'Detox Slimming' Products Linked to Severe Health Risks

In a shocking announcement, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has identified dangerous substances in three popular "detox slimming" food products being sold online. As of October 8, these products, which promised miraculous weight loss results, were reported to contain ingredients that could potentially lead to life-threatening health issues like heart attack and stroke.

The SFA's investigation revealed that these hazardous items were being marketed across various local e-commerce platforms, preying on consumers' desires for effective fat burning and appetite suppression. Among the offending products, the Lemo A Detox Slimming Sachets and Lemo S Detox Slimming Sachets contained high levels of sibutramine—a prescription-only medication that has been banned in Singapore since 2010 due to its association with serious cardiovascular risks.

But that's not all. The third product, Lemo D Detox Slimming Sachets, was found to feature sennosides, often used as a laxative for treating constipation. The SFA has raised alarms about these substances, which are not only ineffective for weight loss but can also cause troublesome side effects like abdominal pain and spasms.

All three of these perilous products are sourced from Malaysia, underscoring concerns about cross-border food safety. In response, the SFA has collaborated with e-commerce platforms to swiftly purge these listings from their sites and issued urgent warnings to sellers, demanding an immediate halt to sales.

The agency reiterates its commitment to consumer safety and promises strict enforcement against any vendors who dare to traffic in adulterated food products. Under Singapore's Sale of Food Act, selling unsafe food can lead to severe penalties, including fines of up to S$5,000 for first-time offenses and S$10,000 or three months of imprisonment for repeat offenders.

If you've recently purchased any of these products, you are advised to refrain from consuming them. And if you have already ingested any of these dangerous detox sachets and have health concerns, seek immediate medical attention.

The SFA urges consumers to remain vigilant, especially when buying food online. With the vivid warnings now issued, it is more crucial than ever to scrutinize the sources of health products and prioritize safety over swift results. Don’t fall victim to deceptive marketing—your health is worth more than a quick fix!