Bades: Consumer deception and threat to health

Bades: Consumer deception and threat to health

Section 1: Definition and classification of dietary supplements

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrated sources of food substances designed to supplement the diet. They are not drugs, but belong to the category of food. The definition of dietary supplements adopted in Russia is enshrined in Federal Law No. 29-ФЗ “On the quality and safety of food products”. According to this law, dietary supplements are natural or natural biologically active substances that are intended for consumption simultaneously with food or adding to food.

The classification of dietary supplements is quite wide and can be based on various criteria, such as the composition, purpose and form of release.

• By composition:
  • Vitamin-mineral complexes: Contain vitamins (A, B, C, D, E, K, etc.) and minerals (calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, selenium, etc.). Designed to compensate for the deficiency of these substances in the body.
  • Plant preparations (herbal preparations): They are made on the basis of medicinal plants and contain biologically active substances of plant origin (flavonoids, alkaloids, glycosides, etc.). Used to prevent and relieve symptoms of various diseases.
  • Probiotics and prebiotics: They contain living microorganisms (probiotics) or substances that stimulate the growth of beneficial intestinal microflora (prebiotics). They are used to normalize intestinal microflora and improve digestion.
  • Amino acids and proteins: Contain amino acids (construction blocks of proteins) and proteins. They are used by athletes and people leading an active lifestyle to maintain muscle mass and recovery after physical exertion.
  • Fatty acids: Contain polyunsaturated fatty acids Omega-3 and Omega-6. They are used to maintain the health of the cardiovascular system and improve cognitive functions.
  • Food fibers (fiber): Interested carbohydrates are represented by the normalization of the intestinal function and a decrease in blood cholesterol.
  • Enzymes: Contain enzymes that improve digestion and absorption of nutrients.
  • Beekeeping products: They contain beeswear royal milk, propolis, perga and other beekeeping products, which have general strengthening and immunomodulating properties.
• By purpose:
  • General strengthening: Designed to increase the general tone of the body and strengthen immunity.
  • Immunomodulating: Designed to maintain and strengthen the immune system.
  • To improve digestion: Designed to normalize the work of the gastrointestinal tract.
  • To maintain the health of the cardiovascular system: Designed to reduce the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
  • To improve cognitive functions: Designed to improve memory, attention and concentration.
  • For athletes: Designed to maintain physical form and recovery after physical exertion.
  • For weight loss: Designed to reduce weight and control appetite.
• By the form of release:
  • Tablets: The most common form of release.
  • Capsules: Contain powdered or liquid contents in the gelatin membrane.
  • Powders: They are divorced in water or juice before use.
  • Liquid forms (syrups, solutions, drops): Convenient for dosing and use.
  • Bars: Used as a snack.
  • Chaent: Contain medicinal plants and herbs.

Section 2: Legislative regulation of the market of the baskets

In Russia, the Bads market is regulated by the Federal Service for Supervision of Consumer Rights Protection and Human Blessing (Rospotrebnadzor). The main regulatory documents governing the production, turnover and quality control of dietary supplements are:

• Federal Law No. 29-FZ “On the quality and safety of food products”: Defines the basic requirements for the quality and safety of food products, including dietary supplements.
• Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 021/2011 “On food safety”: Establishes requirements for food safety, including dietary supplements, in the territory of the Customs Union (Russia, Belarusian, Kazakhstan, Armenia, Kyrgyzstan).
• Technical Regulation of the Customs Union TR TS 022/2011 “Food products in terms of its marking”: Sets the requirements for labeling of food products, including dietary supplements.
• SanPiN 2.3.2.1290-03 “Hygienic requirements for the organization of production and turnover of biologically active additives to food (BAD)”: Establishes hygiene requirements for the production and turnover of dietary supplements.

The procedure for registering dietary supplements includes the following stages:

1. Application of an application and a package of documents in Rospotrebnadzor: The applicant provides information about the composition, manufacturer, method of application and other dietary supplements.
2. Examination of documents: Rospotrebnadzor checks the compliance of the documents provided with the requirements of the law.
3. Laboratory research: Studies of Bad samples are conducted to determine its composition, safety and compliance with the declared characteristics.
4. Issuing a certificate of state registration: In the event of a successful passage of examination and laboratory research, Rospotrebnadzor issues a certificate of state registration of dietary supplements, which allows and sell this product in the territory of the Customs Union.

Despite the presence of legislative regulation, the market of dietary supplements remains insufficiently controlled, which creates opportunities for falsification and sale of poor -quality products.

Section 3: common schemes of consumer deception when selling dietary supplements

The dietary supplement market, unfortunately, often becomes a platform for deceiving consumers. Unscrupulous manufacturers and sellers use various marketing tricks and mislead consumers regarding the properties and effectiveness of their products. Here are some of the most common schemes of fraud:

• False promises and exaggerated statements: Dad manufacturers often declare the miraculous properties of their products, promising cure for serious diseases, rapid weight loss, rejuvenation and other incredible results. These statements, as a rule, have no scientific justification and mislead consumers. Examples: “Cut from cancer”, “complete restoration of vision”, “quick weight loss without diets and exercises.”
• Using pseudo -scientific terms and research: To give their products more persuasiveness, producers of dietary supplements often use pseudo -scientific terms and refer to “research”, which were not carried out properly or do not have scientific value. They can also quote fragments of scientific research torn from context or distort their results.
• Aggressive advertising and obsessive sales methods: Dans are often advertised using aggressive marketing strategies, such as phone calls, emails, spam mailings and intrusive advertising on the Internet. Sellers can use neurolinguistic programming techniques (NLP) and other psychological techniques to convince consumers to buy their products.
• Using fake reviews and recommendations: Many sites selling dietary supplements place fake reviews and recommendations from allegedly satisfied consumers. These reviews can be written by sellers themselves or purchased from third -party companies. The purpose of these fake reviews is to create with potential buyers the impression that the product is effective and safe.
• Sale of dietary supplements under the guise of drugs: Some sellers of dietary supplements deliberately mislead consumers, presenting their products as drugs. They can use medical terminology, indicate the packaging of the names of diseases that supposedly treats dietary supplements, and recommend it to treat specific diseases. This is a direct violation of the law, since dietary supplements are not medicines and are not intended for the treatment of diseases.
• Creating an artificial deficit: Some sellers of dietary supplements create an artificial deficit of their products, stating that it will end soon or that a special action is valid on it, which will end soon. This exerts psychological pressure on consumers and forces them to make impulsive purchase decisions.
• Use of “doctors”-consultants without medical education: Some companies selling dietary supplements hire people without medical education, which are represented by consultants and give “medical” advice to consumers. These “doctors”-consultants, as a rule, recommend dietary supplements for the treatment of various diseases, having no right and not responsible for their recommendations.
• Sale of poor -quality and falsified products: There are a significant amount of poor -quality and falsified products on the market of dietary supplements. These products may contain harmful substances, do not correspond to the declared composition or not contain active ingredients at all. The use of such products can be dangerous to health.
• Multi -level marketing (network marketing): Although network marketing itself is not illegal, in the field of dietary supplements it is often used to promote ineffective and expensive products. District distributors, as a rule, do not have a medical education and do not have sufficient knowledge about the products they sell. They often make exaggerated statements about the properties of dietary supplements and put pressure on their friends and relatives to convince them to buy products.

Section 4: Potential health risks associated with the use of dietary supplements

Despite the fact that dietary supplements are not drugs, their use may be associated with certain health risks. It is important to understand that dietary supplements can interact with drugs, cause side effects and worsen the state of health in certain diseases.

• Interaction with drugs: Dans can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or enhancing their side effects. For example, dietary supplements containing vitamin K can reduce the effectiveness of anticoagulants (drugs that thin blood). Bades containing St. John’s wort can reduce the effectiveness of antidepressants, contraceptive tablets and other drugs. Therefore, before taking dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you take any drugs.
• Side effects: Bades can cause various side effects, such as allergic reactions, digestive disorders, headaches, skin rashes and other symptoms. Some dietary supplements can have a negative effect on the liver, kidneys and other organs. The risk of developing side effects increases with the use of high doses of dietary supplements or while taking several dietary supplements.
• Inconsistency with the declared composition: Research results show that many dietary supplements do not correspond to the declared composition. They can contain fewer active ingredients than indicated on the label, or contain harmful impurities, such as heavy metals, pesticides and other toxic substances. The use of such dietary supplements can be dangerous to health.
• The risk of an overdose of vitamins and minerals: Excessive use of vitamins and minerals can lead to hypervitaminosis and hypermineralosis, which can cause various disorders in the body. For example, an overdose of vitamin A can cause headaches, nausea, vomiting, skin rashes and liver damage. An overdose of iron can cause constipation, abdominal pain, liver damage and cardiovascular system.
• Lack of proven effectiveness: Many dietary supplements do not have proven effectiveness. This means that there is no scientific data confirming their positive effect on health. Instead of spending money on ineffective dietary supplements, it is better to focus on a healthy diet, physical activity and other proven methods of maintaining health.
• Delay in obtaining the necessary medical care: The use of dietary supplements can delay the doctor and obtain the necessary medical care. Some people who suffer from serious diseases are trying to be treated for dietary supplements instead of seeing a doctor. This can lead to a deterioration in health and the development of complications.
• Risk for certain population groups: Some dietary supplements can be especially dangerous for certain groups of the population, such as pregnant women, nursing mothers, children and people with chronic diseases. Before taking dietary supplements, these population groups must be consulted with a doctor.
• The possibility of keeping prohibited substances: Some dietary supplements, especially those that are advertised for losing weight or increasing sports results, may contain prohibited substances, such as stimulants, anabolic steroids and other doping drugs. The use of such dietary supplements can be dangerous to health and lead to the disqualification of athletes.

Section 5: Analysis of specific cases of poisoning and negative consequences associated with dietary supplements

In the media, reports on poisoning and negative consequences associated with the use of dietary supplements periodically appear. These cases confirm the need to be especially careful when choosing and using dietary supplements and always consult a doctor before their use.

• Dad poisoning for weight loss: There are cases of poisoning for weight loss containing sibutramin-a substance that was previously used in drugs for the treatment of obesity, but was prohibited due to serious side effects, such as increasing blood pressure, heart rate and risk of cardiovascular diseases. Unscrupulous manufacturers add sibutramin to dietary supplements without indicating it on the label to enhance the effect of taking the drug.
• Liver damage: Cases of damage to the liver associated with the use of dietary supplements containing green tea extract, kava-kawa and other plant components. These substances can have a toxic effect on the liver, especially when using high doses or in the presence of concomitant liver diseases.
• Allergic reactions: Bades can cause severe allergic reactions, such as anaphylactic shock, which can lead to death. Allergic reactions can be caused by various components of dietary supplements, such as plant extracts, vitamins, minerals and other substances.
• Poisoning with heavy metals: In some dietary supplements, high concentrations of heavy metals were discovered, such as lead, cadmium, mercury and arsenic. These heavy metals can accumulate in the body and cause various diseases, including damage to the nervous system, kidneys and bones.
• Cases of dietary supplements containing dioxins: In 2008, a large scandal occurred in Taiwan, associated with poisoning of dietary supplements containing dioxins – highly toxic substances that can cause cancer and other serious diseases. Dioxins fell into dietary supplements from polluted gelatin, which was used to produce capsules.

These cases emphasize the need to strengthen the control over the production and turnover of dietary supplements and increase consumers’ awareness of risks associated with their use.

Section 6: Comparison of dietary supplements with drugs: key differences and legal consequences

It is important to clearly understand the difference between dietary supplements and drugs, as this determines the requirements for their production, quality control and marketing, as well as the responsibility of manufacturers and sellers.

• Appointment:
  • Bad: Designed to supplement the diet and maintain health. They are not intended for the treatment of diseases.
  • Medicines: Designed for the treatment, prevention and diagnosis of diseases.
• Registration procedure:
  • Bad: Undergo a state registration procedure in Rospotrebnadzor. This procedure includes an examination of documents and laboratory studies, but less strict than for drugs.
  • Medicines: Undergo a state registration procedure in the Ministry of Health of the Russian Federation. This procedure includes clinical trials that confirm the effectiveness and safety of the drug.
• Production requirements:
  • Bad: The production of dietary supplements is regulated by sanitary standards and rules (SanPiN). The requirements for the production of dietary supplements are less strict than the requirements for the production of drugs.
  • Medicines: The production of drugs is regulated by GMP standards (good manufactoring practice – appropriate production practice). GMP standards establish strict requirements for the quality of raw materials, production process, equipment and personnel.
• Clinical trials:
  • Bad: Do not require mandatory clinical trials to confirm effectiveness. Dad manufacturers can conduct clinical research at will, but their results are not mandatory for registration of dietary supplements.
  • Medicines: Clinical trials are necessarily underway, which confirm their effectiveness and safety. Clinical trials are carried out in several stages and include studies on animals and people.
• Marking:
  • Bad: Bad label should indicate that this is a biologically active food supplement, not a drug. The label should also indicate information on the composition, method of application, contraindications and side effects.
  • Medicines: The packaging of the drug should indicate information about the name of the drug, the active substance, dosage, method of use, indications, contraindications, side effects and storage conditions.
• Advertising:
  • Bad: Advertising of dietary supplements should not contain statements about the healing properties of dietary supplements. Advertising of dietary supplements should contain a warning that dietary supplements are not a drug.
  • Medicines: Advertising of drugs must comply with the requirements of advertising legislation and contain reliable information about the drug. Advertising of drugs released according to a doctor’s prescription is prohibited for the general public.
• Responsibility:
  • Bad: Manufacturers and sellers of dietary supplements are responsible for the safety and quality of their products. In case of harm to the health of the consumer as a result of the use of a poor -quality dietary supplement, the manufacturer and seller can be held accountable in accordance with the law.
  • Medicines: Manufacturers and sellers of drugs are responsible for the effectiveness and safety of their products. In case of harm to the health of the consumer as a result of the use of a poor -quality drug, the manufacturer and seller can be held accountable in accordance with the law.

Legal consequences: Violation of the law on advertising and the turnover of dietary supplements can entail administrative and criminal liability. In particular, for the sale of low -quality dietary supplements containing harmful substances or not corresponding to the declared composition, fines, suspension of activity and even imprisonment are provided. Bad’s presentation as a drug is also a violation of the law and may entail criminal liability.

Section 7: The role and responsibility of doctors in counseling patients on the use of dietary supplements

Doctors play an important role in advising patients on the use of dietary supplements. They should provide patients with reliable information about dietary supplements, help them make reasonable decisions and prevent possible health risks.

• Assessment of the need to receive dietary supplements: The doctor must evaluate whether the patient really needs to receive dietary supplements. In many cases, a deficiency of vitamins and minerals can be compensated using a balanced diet. Before the appointment of dietary supplements, the doctor must examine the patient and identify a deficiency of specific substances.
• Providing reliable information: The doctor must provide the patient with reliable information about dietary supplements, including their composition, method of use, contraindications, side effects and possible interactions with drugs. The doctor must explain to the patient that dietary supplements are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases.
• Help in the choice of dietary: If the patient really needs a dietary supplement, the doctor should help him choose the right product. The doctor must take into account the individual characteristics of the patient, his health status and medications he takes. The doctor should recommend dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and comply with the requirements for product quality.
• Control over the patient’s condition: After the start of taking dietary supplements, the doctor must control the patient’s condition and monitor the appearance of possible side effects. In case of side effects, the doctor must adjust the dose of dietary supplements or cancel its intake.
• Refusal to promote specific dietary supplements: The doctor should avoid promoting specific brands of dietary supplements, especially if he receives a reward from manufacturers or sellers for this. The doctor should be guided by the interests of the patient and provide him with objective information.
• Advanced training: The doctor must constantly improve his qualifications in the field of nutrition and dietetics in order to keep abreast of the latest scientific data on dietary supplements and their impact on health.

Responsibility of doctors: Doctors are responsible for their recommendations for the use of dietary supplements. If the doctor misunderstood dietary supplements or did not provide the patient with the necessary information, and this led to a deterioration in the patient’s health, the doctor may be held liable in accordance with the law. The doctor can also be held accountable for promoting ineffective or dangerous dietary supplements.

Section 8: How to protect yourself from fraud when buying and using dietary supplements: Tips to consumers

Protection from deception when buying and using dietary supplements requires awareness, critical thinking and compliance with certain rules. Here are some tips that will help consumers make the right choice and avoid negative health consequences:

• Consult a doctor: Before taking dietary supplements, be sure to consult a doctor. The doctor will help to evaluate the need to receive dietary supplements, choose a suitable product and prevent possible health risks.
• Critically treat advertising: Do not believe the advertising promises of the miraculous properties of dietary supplements. Bades are not drugs and are not intended for the treatment of diseases. Do not trust the information presented on sites selling dietary supplements, as it can be inaccurate.
• Check information about the manufacturer: Learn more about the manufacturer of dietary supplements. Choose dietary supplements from reliable manufacturers who have a good reputation and comply with product quality requirements. Check if the manufacturer is registered in the register of Rospotrebnadzor.
• Carefully study the composition: Before buying Bad, carefully study its composition. Make sure that there are no ingredients for which you are allergic or which can interact with the drugs you take. Avoid dietary supplements with a dubious composition or with a large number of artificial additives.
• Pay attention to marking: Make sure that the Bad label indicates all the necessary information, including the name of the product, the composition, the method of application, contraindications, side effects, expiration date and information about the manufacturer. The label should clearly indicate that this is a biologically active food supplement, not a drug.
• Buy dietary supplements only in proven places: Buy dietary supplements only in pharmacies or specialized stores licensed for the sale of dietary supplements. Avoid buying dietary supplements on the Internet on dubious sites or from individuals.
• Do not exceed the recommended dose: Do not exceed the recommended dose of the dietary supplement indicated on the label. Excessive use of vitamins and minerals can lead to hypervitaminosis and hypermineralosis, which can cause various disorders in the body.
• Inform the doctor about the admission of dietary supplements: If you take any dietary supplements, be sure to inform your doctor about it, especially if you take medications. Bades can interact with drugs by changing their effectiveness or enhancing their side effects.
• Report side effects: In the event of side effects after taking the Bad, immediately stop taking it and consult a doctor. Replace the side effect in Rospotrebnadzor.
• Do not replace dietary supplements with full food: Dietary supplements should not replace good nutrition. They are intended only to supplement the diet. Try to receive all the necessary vitamins and minerals from a balanced diet.
• Remember the principle of “do not harm”: Before starting a bad, ask yourself the question: “Do I really need it? Will it harm my health?” If you doubt, it is better to refuse to receive dietary supplements.

Section 9: Prospects for the development of the market of the baskets: trends and forecasts

The dietary supplement market continues to develop, and in the future we can expect the emergence of new products and technologies, as well as changes in market regulation.

• The growth of the popularity of personalized nutrition: In the future, we can expect the growth of the popularity of personalized nutrition, which involves the development of individual recommendations for nutrition and receiving dietary supplements based on genetic analysis and other individual characteristics of the body.
• Development of new production technologies: New dedication technologies are developing, such as nanotechnologies and microcapsulation, which can increase the bioavailability and effectiveness of active ingredients.
• Strengthening quality control: Strengthening the quality control of dietary supplements from state bodies is expected. In particular, more stringent requirements for the production, registration and labeling of dietary supplements can be introduced.
• Growth online sales: The share of online sales of dietary supplements will continue to grow. Consumers are increasingly preferring to buy dietary supplements on the Internet due to convenience, a wide range and the opportunity to compare prices.
• The emergence of new categories of dietary supplements: New categories of dietary supplements, such as nutrosmetics (dietary supplements to improve the condition of the skin, hair and nails) and nootropics appear (dietary supplements to improve cognitive functions).
• Integration of dietary supplements into the healthcare system: In some countries, dietary supplements are gradually integrated into the healthcare system. Doctors are increasingly prescribing dietary supplements as an addition to the main treatment.
• Strengthening attention to the evidence base: Consumers are becoming more and more demanding on the evidence base of the effectiveness of dietary supplements. Bad manufacturers are forced to conduct clinical research to confirm the positive effect of their products on health.
• Development of the market for athletes: The market for athletes continues to develop. New products are emerging to increase sports results, accelerate recovery after training and prevent injuries.
• The growth of the popularity of plant dietary supplements: The popularity of plant dietary supplements based on medicinal plants and herbs is growing. Consumers increasingly prefer natural products to synthetic.
• Development of the market for older people: The market of dietary supplements for the elderly is developing. New products appear to maintain health and improve the quality of life of older people.

Section 10: International experience in regulating the market of DBDs: Lessons for Russia

The study of international experience in regulating the market of DBDs can be useful for Russia in terms of improving national legislation and improving the efficiency of quality control of dietary supplements. In different countries, various approaches to the regulation of the market market are used.

• USA: In the USA, dietary supplements are regulated by the Office for Sanitary Supervision of the quality of food and medication (FDA). Bades belong to the category of food products and do not undergo mandatory registration before entering the market. However, FDA has the right to withdraw from the turnover of dietary supplements, which pose a threat to consumer health. Bad manufacturers are responsible for the safety of their products and must comply with the requirements for labeling.
• European Union: In the European Union, the regulation of dietary supplements is carried out at the level of individual member states. There are general requirements for food safety that apply to dietary supplements. In some countries, such as Germany and France, there are more stringent rules for regulating the market market than in other EU countries.
• Canada: In Canada, dietary supplements are regulated by the Ministry of Health of Canada. Bades undergo mandatory registration before entering the market. The Ministry of Health of Canada evaluates the safety, efficiency and quality of dietary supplements.
• Australia: In Australia, dietary supplements are regulated by the Office for therapeutic goods (TGA). Bades are divided into two categories: drugs and food products. Medicines undergo a more stringent registration procedure than food products.
• Japan: In Japan, dietary supplements are regulated by the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare. Bades are divided into two categories: health products and products with declared functional properties. Products with declared functional properties undergo a procedure for evaluating effectiveness and safety.

Lessons for Russia:

• Strengthening quality control: It is necessary to strengthen quality control at all stages of production and turnover. It is necessary to carry out regular checks of dietary supplement manufacturers and select products for laboratory tests.
• Harmonization of legislation: It is necessary to harmonize Russian dietary supplements with international standards. This will increase the competitiveness of Russian dietary supplements and facilitate the export of products.
• Increasing consumer awareness: It is necessary to increase consumers’ awareness of risks associated with the use of dietary supplements. It is necessary to conduct information campaigns aimed at the formation of a critical attitude to the advertising of dietary supplements.
• Strengthening the responsibility of manufacturers: It is necessary to strengthen the responsibility of manufacturers of dietary supplements for the safety and quality of their products. It is necessary to introduce more stringent sanctions for violation of the legislation on dietary supplements.
• Development of a system for monitoring side effects: It is necessary to develop a system for monitoring side effects of dietary supplements. This will identify dangerous dietary supplements and take timely measures to protect consumer health.
• Introduction of a system for evaluating effectiveness: It is necessary to introduce a system for evaluating the effectiveness of dietary supplements. This will help to separate effective dietary supplements from ineffective ones and protect consumers from deception.

Section 11: Alternatives to use dietary supplements: a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet

In most cases, maintaining health and good health can be provided without the use of dietary supplements, using a healthy lifestyle and a balanced diet.

• Balanced diet: The basis of a healthy lifestyle is a balanced diet that provides the body with all the necessary vitamins, minerals and other nutrients. It is recommended to consume a variety of foods from all food groups, including fruits, vegetables, cereals, proteins and fats.
• Regular physical activity: Regular physical activity helps maintain health of the cardiovascular system, strengthen muscles and bones, control weight and improve mood