The Macau Health Bureau (SSM) and Hong Kong’s Department of Health are urging the public not to buy or consume a slimming product called Slim Perfect Legs, as it contains an undeclared and banned ingredient that poses serious health risks.
According to a statement by the Hong Kong Department of Health on Monday, a woman was arrested in Hong Kong in July for the suspected illegal sale and possession of the product. However, Hong Kong police have recently found that the product can still be bought through a mobile app.
Although the product was packaged differently, laboratory tests showed that it still contained the banned ingredient sibutramine, which is classified as a Part I poison and was once used as an appetite suppressant, the department said.
Since November 2010, products containing sibutramine have been banned in Hong Kong because it may increase the risk of a stroke or heart attack.
The department called on consumers who have bought the slimming product to stop using it immediately and seek medical help if they feel unwell.
Macau’s Health Bureau said in a follow-up statement Tuesday that the local sale of the product is illegal because it contains an unauthorised substance.
The statement also said that the Health Bureau has never authorised the import or sale of the product in Macau. Further information on the illicit remedy is available on the bureau’s hotline 66833329.
However, the Thai product was still available online (http://jsp24.com) in Macau last night. The website’s “Quick Overview” promised: “Slim Perfect Legs High Fiber Detox. No side effect. Suitable for men & women.” The product was priced at US$88 (704 patacas) for 12 boxes containing 10 capsules each. It was also available on amazon, ebay and other online sales websites.(macaunews-macaupost)
