Banned Substances Detected Annually in Health Products and Plans for Enhanced Public Education for Consumers

NOTICE PAPER NO. 3046

NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR WRITTEN ANSWER

FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON OR AFTER 10 SEPTEMBER 2024

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye

MP for Radin Mas

Question No. 6075

To ask the Minister for Health (a) how many cases of health products containing banned substances has the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) detected annually in the past three years; and (b) whether HSA plans to step up public education to inform consumers to purchase health products from reputable pharmacies, retailers' websites, and those with an established retail presence in Singapore.

Answer

1     Over the last 3 years, HSA has detected an average of 10 cases of health products containing banned and prohibited substances per year.

2     HSA regularly issues press releases on the adverse reactions that result from use of illegal health products.  Consumer advisories on making discerning choices in the purchase of health products from reputable sources such as pharmacies or online shops with established retail presence in Singapore are provided through HSA’s website, social media platforms and the local news media.