The aim of the joint inspection campaign was to gain an overview of the food supplements currently being sent to consumers in Austria from third countries outside the EU in order to protect them from health risks. A total of 50 samples were checked, 21 illegal food supplements and one harmful food supplement were stopped. The very high rate of complaints about illegal or harmful ingredients and violations of the Novel Food Regulation in the internet orders analysed show the dangers for consumers when buying food supplements online and the need for strict controls.

44 per cent complaint rate, products with mercury and lithium intercepted

A total of 50 consignments were checked at the postal distribution centre in Inzersdorf, which were sold and delivered to Austria as food supplements via the Internet. Our experts found violations of European food law and the Novel Food Regulation: 21 products are to be assessed as unauthorised novel foods and are therefore not marketable in the EU. Some of the food supplements contained lithium and had to be clarified with the Federal Office for Safety in Health Care (BASG) regarding their classification as unauthorised medicinal products. In total, 44 per cent of the samples tested had to be rejected. If the FOPH determines on the basis of the goods inspection by customs that the food supplement in question may not be delivered to the recipient, it is returned under customs supervision.

Information from the Federal Office of Consumer Health (BAVG)