How to identify adulterated, counterfeit and substandard health products, and what you should do

The sale of adulterated, counterfeit and substandard health products has proliferated in recent years, fuelled by demand and the low cost of such products. This poses a serious threat to public health and safety, as the consumption of these health products can cause adverse effects and even death in some cases.

What are adulterated, counterfeit and substandard health products?

It is dangerous to consume adulterated, counterfeit and substandard health products. These are health products, such as medicines, supplements and medical devices, which may:

• Contain undeclared prescription medicines that should not be taken without medical supervision, or excessive heavy metal contents

• Be counterfeit, and not of the same quality as the genuine product

• Be produced in poor manufacturing conditions with no proper quality controls

How can I identify adulterated, counterfeit and substandard health products?

Such health products are often peddled via makeshift street stalls, unsolicited spam mail, or over the Internet via unknown websites or sellers. If your product was obtained from such dubious sources, there is a high chance that it may be adulterated, counterfeit or substandard.

Some of these products may have similar names and packaging as those sold in clinics or pharmacies, thus making it difficult for consumers to differentiate the real product from the fake.

The best way to avoid such health products is to buy your health products from registered clinics and pharmacies.

What is the law on adulterated, counterfeit and substandard health products?

Persons who import or sell adulterated, counterfeit and substandard health products can be prosecuted under the Medicines Act, Poisons Act, and/or Health Products Act. The penalties are as follows:

• Medicines Act: Fine of up to $5,000 and/or 2 years’ imprisonment.

• Poisons Act: Fine of up to $10,000 and/or 2 years’ imprisonment.

• Health Products Act: Fine of up to $100,000 and/or 3 years’ imprisonment.

What should I do if I encounter adulterated, counterfeit and substandard health products being sold?

You can play a vital part to help combat adulterated, counterfeit and substandard health products in Singapore. If you encounter such products being sold, report it to our Enforcement Branch at 6866 3485 or through e-mail.

• Provide clear and detailed information in your report. Please also identify yourself and provide your contact details, in case any follow up is required. All information will be kept strictly confidential.

• Your feedback will be recorded and assessed to determine the most appropriate course of action. To maintain the integrity of investigations, we will not be able to update you on the investigation process and outcomes.

• HSA only has jurisdiction to enforce laws locally. For the sale of adulterated, counterfeit and substandard health products on overseas-based websites, we will alert and seek the assistance of our foreign counterparts to take the appropriate action.

Let’s work together to protect public health and safety by tackling the issue of adulterated, counterfeit and substandard health products!