Bad: how to distinguish a quality product from fake
Section 1: Understanding the market of Dad and risk of fakes
Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) have become an integral part of the modern health market and Wellness. They are positioned as means to maintain general well -being, replenish the deficiency of vitamins and minerals, strengthen immunity and even solve specific health problems. This huge and fast -growing market, however, attracts not only conscientious manufacturers, but also scammers who create and sell fake or poor -quality dietary supplements. The risk of acquiring such a product is very large, and the consequences can be serious: from the lack of the expected effect to harm to health.
1.1. BAD market scale and factors contributing to the spread of fakes
The market is huge and diversified. Its global volume is calculated by billions of dollars, and it continues to grow, fed by the trends of a healthy lifestyle, aging population and a growing interest in natural products. In Russia, as in many other countries, dietary supplements are available in pharmacies, specialized stores, online stores and even supermarkets. This widespread and accessibility create favorable soil for the spread of fakes.
Several factors contribute to the prosperity of the fake dietary supplement market:
- High profitability: The production and sale of fake dietary supplements is a very profitable business. Fraudsters can significantly reduce the cost through the use of cheap raw materials, deception regarding ingredients and bypassing quality and safety requirements.
- The difficulty of determining the fake: It is not always possible visually or organoleptically (to taste, smell, appearance) to distinguish a fake dietary supplement from the present. This often requires laboratory analysis.
- Insufficient awareness of consumers: Many consumers do not know how to distinguish high -quality dietary supplements from a fake, and rely on advertising, promises of sellers and low prices.
- Weak control: Despite the existing regulatory acts, the control over production and the turnover of dietary supplements is often insufficient, which allows scammers to avoid punishment.
- Internet trade: Anonymity and global Internet coverage makes it the perfect platform for the sale of fake dietary supplements.
1.2. What are the risks of consumption of fake dietary supplements?
Consumption of fake dietary supplements can pose a serious threat to health:
- Lack of the declared effect: A fake may not contain active ingredients or contain them in insufficient quantities, which makes the product ineffective. As a result, the consumer does not receive the expected benefit and may lose time required for timely treatment.
- The presence of dangerous impurities: Fake dietary supplements may contain harmful or even toxic substances, such as heavy metals, pesticides, bacteria or drugs that are not indicated on the label. This can lead to poisoning, allergic reactions, violation of the work of organs and systems, and even to death.
- Incorrect dosage: Fake dietary supplement may contain active ingredients in the wrong dosage, which can lead to an overdose or insufficient effect.
- Interaction with drugs: Fake dietary supplement may contain ingredients that interact with the drugs taken by the consumer, which can lead to undesirable side effects or reducing the effectiveness of treatment.
- Delay in making the correct diagnosis and treatment: The consumer, relying on the effect of fake dietary supplements, can postpone an appeal to the doctor and the beginning of adequate treatment, which can lead to a deterioration in health.
- Economic losses: Buying a fake dietary supplement is not only a risk to health, but also financial losses.
Section 2: Key signs of high -quality dietary supplements
In order to minimize the risk of acquiring a fake dietary supplement, it is necessary to pay attention to a number of key features indicating the quality of the product.
2.1. Bad registration and availability of relevant documents
In Russia, all dietary supplements should be registered in Rospotrebnadzor and have a certificate of state registration (SGR). The presence of SGR is a prerequisite for the legal sale of dietary supplements in the Russian Federation.
- Checking the presence of SGR: Before buying dietary supplements, you need to make sure that there is SGR. Information about the SGR should be indicated on the product label.
- Supervision of the authenticity of the SGR: It is important not only the presence of SGR, but also its authenticity. You can check the authenticity of the SGR on the Rospotrebnadzor.ru website in the section “Register of certificates of state registration”. In the register, it is necessary to enter the number indicated on the packaging, and make sure that the product information (name, manufacturer, composition) corresponds to the data indicated on the label.
- The absence of SGR is a clear sign of fake: If there is no information about the SCR on the packaging of the Bad or the data of the SGR does not correspond to the information in the register of Rospotrebnadzor, this is a clear sign of fake.
2.2. The appearance of packaging and marking
The appearance of packaging and dietary supplements can tell a lot about the quality of the product.
- Packaging quality: The packaging should be of high quality, intact, with a clear and selective marking. There should be no traces of autopsy, scuffs, bumps or other defects on the package.
- Complete and reliable information: The marking of dietary supplements should contain complete and reliable information about the product, including:
- Name of dietary supplements.
- Composition (a complete list of ingredients in the decrease of their mass fraction).
- Release form (capsules, tablets, powder, solution, etc.).
- Net mass or volume.
- Recommendations for use.
- Contraindications.
- Best before date.
- Storage conditions.
- Name and location of the manufacturer.
- The name and location of the organization authorized by the manufacturer to accept claims from consumers.
- Party number.
- SGR (as mentioned above).
- The inscription “is not a drug.”
- Lack of spelling and grammatical errors: The presence of spelling and grammatical errors on the package may indicate a poor -quality product or fake.
- Compliance with information on the packaging and in the liner: Information on the package must comply with the information specified in the insert (if any).
- Striking code: The presence of a barcode does not guarantee the authenticity of dietary supplements, but its absence should alert. The barcode should be clear and easy to read with a scanner.
2.3. The composition of dietary supplements and the declared properties
It is important to carefully study the composition of dietary supplements and compare the declared properties with scientifically sound data.
- Study of the composition: It is necessary to carefully study the composition of dietary supplements and make sure that it contains the declared ingredients in the required quantity. Do not buy dietary supplements, which include ingredients that cause doubts or allergic reactions.
- Scientific validity: The declared properties of dietary supplements should be scientifically justified and confirmed by clinical research. Do not trust the promises of instant and miraculous healing from all diseases.
- Compliance with the composition of the declared properties: The composition of the dietary supplement must comply with the declared properties. For example, a dietary supplement designed to strengthen immunity should contain vitamin C, zinc, echinacea extracts or other immunomodulating components.
- The presence of “empty” ingredients: Some dietary supplements may contain “empty” ingredients, such as fillers, dyes or flavors that have no nutritional value and are added only to improve the appearance or taste of the product. A large number of “empty” ingredients may indicate a low quality dietary supplement.
- Forbidden ingredients: Some ingredients can be prohibited for use in DAA in certain countries. Before buying dietary supplements, especially purchased abroad, you must make sure that its composition corresponds to applicable regulatory acts.
2.4. Appearance, taste and smell of dietary supplement
The organoleptic properties of dietary supplements (appearance, taste and smell) can also give information about its quality.
- Appearance: The appearance of the dietary supplement should be homogeneous, without visible defects, spots or mold. The color of the dietary supplement must correspond to the declared on the package.
- Taste: The taste of dietary supplements must correspond to the declared on the package or be neutral. An unpleasant, bitter or sour taste can indicate poor -quality raw materials or improper storage.
- Scent: The smell of dietary supplements must correspond to the declared on the package or be neutral. An unpleasant, musty or mold smell can indicate poor -quality raw materials or improper storage.
- Change in organoleptic properties: If in the process of storing dietary supplements have changed its appearance, taste or smell, it should not be consumed.
2.5. Brand manufacturer and reputation
The choice of dietary supplements from a well -known and reliable manufacturer with a good reputation reduces the risk of acquiring a fake.
- Information about the manufacturer: On the package of dietary supplements, complete and reliable information about the manufacturer (name, address, contact details) should be indicated.
- Brand reputation: Before buying dietary supplements, it is worth studying the reputation of the brand. You can look for reviews about the products of this brand on the Internet, read reviews and ratings.
- Certification of production: The presence of a certificate of compliance with the GMP standards (Good Manuapacturing Practice) indicates that dietary supplements are carried out in accordance with high quality and safety standards.
- Manufacturer’s own site: The factor has its own site with detailed information about products, composition, research and certificates is a positive sign.
- Beware of unknown brands: Avoid the purchase of dietary supplements from unknown brands, especially if they are sold at a very low price.
Section 3: where to buy dietary supplements: choosing a reliable place of sale
The place of acquisition of dietary supplements plays an important role in ensuring the quality and safety of the product.
3.1. Pharmacies: advantages and disadvantages
Pharmacies are considered one of the most reliable places for buying dietary supplements, since they are required to comply with certain requirements for the storage and sale of medicines and dietary supplements.
- Advantages:
- Quality control: pharmacies are required to check the availability of SGR and certificates of conformity for dietary supplements.
- Qualified consultations: in the pharmacy you can get a pharmacist’s consultation at the choice of dietary supplements and its use.
- Storage conditions: in pharmacies, the conditions for storage of dietary supplements are observed, which ensures the safety of their properties.
- Quality guarantee: pharmacies are responsible for the quality of the products sold.
- Flaws:
- Higher price: the price of dietary supplements in pharmacies is usually higher than in other places of sale.
- Limited assortment: Assortment of dietary supplements in pharmacies can be limited.
3.2. Specialized healthy food stores and wellness centers
Specialized healthy food stores and wellness centers often offer a wide range of dietary supplements, including organic and natural products.
- Advantages:
- A wide range: a large selection of dietary supplements from different manufacturers.
- Specialized knowledge: Sales consultants often have specialized knowledge about dietary supplements and can help in choosing a product.
- Organic and natural products: the ability to purchase dietary supplements made of natural and organic raw materials.
- Flaws:
- Less strict control: quality control in specialized stores can be less strict than in pharmacies.
- Higher price: the price of organic and natural dietary supplements, as a rule, is higher than for ordinary dietary supplements.
3.3. Online stores: risks and precautions
Online stores offer a wide selection of dietary supplements at attractive prices, but the purchase of dietary supplements on the Internet is associated with certain risks.
- Risks:
- High risk of fake: online stores are the most common place of sale of fake dietary supplements.
- Lack of control: lack of quality control and storage conditions of dietary supplements.
- Inability to check the product: the inability to visually evaluate the appearance of the packaging and dietary supplements before buying.
- The seller’s anonymity: the difficulty of identifying the seller and making claims in the case of acquisition of a poor -quality product.
- Precautions:
- The choice of reliable online stores: buy dietary supplements only in well-known and trusted online stores with a good reputation.
- Checking information about the seller: Make sure that the website of the online store indicates complete information about the seller (name, address, contact details).
- Checking the availability of SGR: Check the presence of the SGR on the website of the online store.
- Customer reviews: Read the reviews of other buyers about dietary supplements and online store.
- Payment after receipt: if possible, choose the payment method after receiving the goods in order to be able to check its quality before payment.
- Beware of too low prices: too low the price may be a sign of fake.
3.4. Social networks and ads: not recommended
The purchase of dietary supplements on social networks and ads is extremely not recommended, since in this case the risk of acquiring a fake is very high.
- Reasons:
- Lack of control: lack of any quality control and safety.
- Anonymity of the seller: It is almost impossible to identify the seller and make claims in case of acquisition of a poor -quality product.
- High risk of fraud: a high risk of becoming a victim of scammers.
Section 4: actions when detecting fake dietary supplement
If you have acquired dietary supplements and suspect that it is fake, you need to take the following actions.
4.1. Continuation of dietary supplements
First of all, it is necessary to immediately stop receiving dietary supplements.
4.2. An appeal to a doctor
If any symptoms appear or a worsening state of health, you must consult a doctor.
4.3. Seller notification
It is necessary to contact the seller and notify him that you suspect that the acquired dietary supplement is fake. Require a refund.
4.4. Appeal to Rospotrebnadzor
It is necessary to contact Rospotrebnadzor with a complaint about the seller of a fake downtime. Give Rospotrebnadzor all the available information about the product and seller, including copies of checks, packaging and SGR.
4.5. Law enforcement
If fake dietary supplements have caused harm to your health, it is necessary to apply to law enforcement agencies with a statement of crime.
4.6. Information of the public
Share information about fake dietary supplements on social networks and forums to warn other consumers.
Section 5: Bad Legislation in Russia
Bad market regulation in Russia is carried out at the legislative level.
5.1. Basic regulations
Basic normative acts regulating the production and turnover of dietary supplements in Russia:
- Federal Law dated 03.30.1999 No. 52-ФЗ “On the sanitary and epidemiological well-being of the population.”
- Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 021/2011 “On food safety”.
- Technical regulations of the Customs Union TR TS 022/2011 “Food products regarding its marking.”
- Decision of the Customs Union Commission dated 04.04.2011 No. 620 “On unified sanitary-epidemiological and hygienic requirements for goods subject to sanitary and epidemiological surveillance (control).”
5.2. Requirements for the production and turnover of dietary supplements
The legislation establishes strict requirements for the production and turnover of dietary supplements, including:
- Mandatory state registration of dietary supplements.
- Quality control of raw materials and finished products.
- Compliance with sanitary and hygienic norms and rules in the production of dietary supplements.
- Correct marking of dietary supplements.
- Correct conditions for storage and transportation of dietary supplements.
5.3. Liability for violation of legislation
For violation of dietary supplements, administrative and criminal liability is provided.
Section 6: Tips for choosing and using dietary supplements
To get the maximum benefit from dietary supplements and avoid negative consequences, you should adhere to the following tips.
6.1. Consultation with a doctor
Before taking any dietary supplement, you need to consult a doctor. The doctor will help determine the need to take dietary supplements, choose the optimal drug and dosage, and also take into account possible contraindications and interactions with drugs.
6.2. Reading instructions
Before using dietary supplements, you must carefully read the instructions. Strictly follow the recommendations for the use and dosage specified in the instructions.
6.3. Do not exceed the dosage
Do not exceed the recommended dosage of dietary supplements. An overdose can lead to undesirable side effects.
6.4. Follow the storage conditions
Follow the storage conditions of the dietary supplements indicated on the packaging. Incorrect storage can lead to a deterioration in the quality of the product.
6.5. Pay attention to the expiration date
Do not use dietary supplements with an expired expiration date.
6.6. Do not replace dietary supplement with medicines
Bades are not drugs and cannot replace full treatment. Bades can only be used as an addition to the main treatment.
6.7. Inform the doctor about the admission of dietary supplements
Tell your doctor about all the dietary supplements that you take to avoid possible interactions with drugs.
6.8. Listen to your body
If any side effects occur, after taking dietary supplements, it is necessary to stop taking it and consult a doctor.
Section 7: Prospects for the development of the market of BAD and the fight against fakes
The dietary supplement market continues to develop, and the fight against fakes is becoming an increasingly urgent task.
7.1. Improving quality control
It is necessary to strengthen quality control at all stages of production and turnover.
7.2. Tighten the legislation
It is necessary to tighten the legislation against manufacturers and sellers of fake dietary supplements.
7.3. Increasing consumer awareness
It is necessary to increase consumers’ awareness of risks associated with the acquisition of fake dietary supplements, and about ways to identify them.
7.4. Technology development
It is necessary to develop and implement new technologies to identify fake dietary supplements, such as DNA-analysis and spectroscopy methods.
7.5. Cooperation
It is necessary to establish cooperation between state bodies, dietary supplements, pharmacies and public organizations in order to combat fakes.
7.6. Online platforms and marketplaces
Online platforms and marketplaces should be responsible for the sale of fake dietary supplements on their sites and take measures to prevent this. The introduction of verification systems for sellers and product quality control is a prerequisite for a safe online trade in D FA.
7.7. Transparency and trackability
The introduction of product tracking systems will allow consumers and regulatory authorities to monitor the path of dietary supplements from the manufacturer to the final consumer, which will significantly reduce the risk of fakes.
7.8. International cooperation
The fight against fakes of dietary supplements requires international cooperation, since many fake dietary supplements are produced and sold across borders. The exchange of information and experience between countries will more effectively deal with this problem.