In a recent alert, the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) has urged consumers to steer clear of seven drinks after discovering they contain medicinal substances that are prohibited in food products. This warning comes on the heels of a thorough investigation that has raised significant health concerns.
Identified Products
- Berryshine Pure Enzyme Fiber with Prebiotics
- BUM Energy Drinks (six flavours):
- Blue Snow Cone
- Champion Mentality
- Peach Mango
- Cherry Frost
- Citrus Burst
- Orange Sunrise
Health Risks
The Berryshine drink, marketed as a fibre enzyme drink to aid digestion and weight loss, was found to contain sennosides—a compound primarily used to relieve constipation. This substance can lead to various side effects, including:
- Abdominal pain
- Spasms
- Diarrhoea
- Low potassium levels, resulting in muscle weakness
Additionally, the product was mislabelled as a product of Singapore, despite originating from Malaysia. Meanwhile, the BUM Energy Drinks are marketed as pre-workout supplements designed to enhance mental clarity but were found to contain citicoline, which is typically used in treating stroke patients. Potential side effects of citicoline include:
- Insomnia
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Changes in blood pressure
Immediate Actions Taken
According to the SFA, these products were available on multiple local e-commerce platforms, and the agency has collaborated with these platforms to remove the listings without delay.
Consumer Advice
The SFA strongly advises anyone who has purchased these items not to consume them. If you’ve already consumed any of these products and have health concerns, seek medical advice as soon as possible.
To stay safe, consumers are encouraged to exercise caution and remain vigilant when buying food from unverified sources. For further details or to report any sightings of unsafe food products, please visit www.sfa.gov.sg/feedback.