MFDA: Unauthorized supplements available in Maldives despite absence of ads

The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has stated that although various unauthorized supplements are not being formally advertised in the Maldivian market, such products remain available for purchase at some stores.

Speaking on a state media programmed, MFDA Food Quality Assurance Coordinator Aminath Shabana Ali emphasized that a wide range of supplements is also being sold through social media platforms without the required registration.

Citing that prior approval from the MFDA is mandatory before any food supplement can be imported into the Maldives, Shabana explained that importers must obtain either formal registration or have the product listed with the authority before bringing it into the country.

She further noted that more than 8,000 food supplements have been listed in the Maldives to date, reflecting a significant rise in public consumption of these products.

Addressing the regulatory framework, Shabana said all products must receive MFDA approval before they can be advertised.

"This means that the consumption of such products among Maldivians is quite high. Therefore, we must verify whether these substances are genuinely essential for our bodies," Shabana remarked.

She also cautioned consumers to pay close attention to warning labels on certain supplements, including notices such as 'P65 Warning' and 'Reproductive Harm.'

The MFDA further emphasized that all products released to the market must carry clear labels, ensuring that ingredients are easily identifiable by consumers.

Although the new labelling regulation was gazetted in June this year, businesses have been given a six-month grace period to comply with the new requirements.

The authority warned that legal action will be taken against businesses found selling products with non-compliant labels after the December compliance deadline.

The MFDA also urged the public to ensure that food supplements are consumed only when medically necessary and reminded businesses to obtain the required approvals before advertising or selling such products.