Health Ministry investigates alleged death linked to viral skin-lightening supplement with prohibited glutathione
The Health Ministry’s Food Safety and Quality Division is investigating claims circulating on social media that a woman died after consuming a viral RM20 skin-lightening supplement. The supplement, which has gained attention online, contains glutathione, an ingredient listed as prohibited under the Drug Registration Guidance Document (DRGD).
The Food Act 1983 explicitly prohibits the inclusion of any substance not permitted under the Act or its regulations. BKKM has confirmed that the product is being sold on e-commerce platforms and social media, making it a violation of Section 13B(2)(d) of the Act.
BKKM is taking a thorough approach to the investigation, including verifying the claims and examining product details such as labelling compliance, ingredients used, manufacturing premises, importers, and local market distribution. This is to ensure the safety and quality of health supplements in the market.
Initially, a social media user on Threads claimed that a woman had died after taking the supplement. However, BKKM has found no social media posts from close family members or friends confirming this tragic event. The division is actively tracing the original source of the claim to verify its authenticity.
Anyone with information that could assist BKKM can contact 03-88850796 or email [email protected]. BKKM will continue to monitor the issue and provide updates from time to time, emphasizing the importance of verifying the authenticity of health supplements before consumption.
