SFDA cracks down on unregistered peptide sales via online platforms

The Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) has intensified its efforts to curb the sale of unregistered peptide products through online platforms. The authority identified several such products being marketed without the required licenses, warning of potential health risks associated with their use. This crackdown forms part of SFDA's persistent efforts to regulate products sold via digital channels and ensure their legal registration and safety standards are met.

The unregistered peptides, originating from unknown sources, do not adhere to approved criteria for safe transportation, storage, or pharmaceutical supply chains. Consequently, their safety, quality, and handling conditions remain unverified. Some unscrupulous websites and social media accounts used deceitful marketing strategies, implying the products are tested, of superior quality, or reliable, misleading consumers about the products' safety or authorization.

The SFDA identified these illicit sites and accounts after confirming their non-compliance with registration and lawful distribution requirements. The authority has vowed to take legal action against violators, with penalties under the Law on Pharmaceutical and Herbal Establishments and Products potentially reaching SAR 5 million in fines, imprisonment for up to five years, or both.

These measures are crucial as unregistered or unknown-source products may pose significant health risks due to their lack of compliance with approved standards. The SFDA has already initiated legal proceedings against the owners of the offending online stores, with plans to refer them to the Public Prosecution. The authority is committed to ongoing surveillance and inspection of online platforms to enforce regulations, boost product safety, and safeguard public health.

The SFDA urges consumers to verify the legitimacy and legal registration of pharmaceutical products before purchasing, discouraging the procurement of such items from untrusted or unlicensed sources.