Food contamination by sibutramine
By Dr. Vincent Cirimele, Eurofins ChemTox, France
The Dietary Supplement Market is worth a billion euros in France alone, 30% of Which is dedicated to dieting. In 2011 16% of Europeans were affected by obesity and this level Continues to grow. Among the solutions available, dietary supplements promise a reduction in weight or appetite. For Example, there are several available online anorectics or prescribed by some doctors. These substances interfere with hormones naturally produced by the body to reduce appetite and hunger. While some of thesis tablets are harmless, others may contain active ingredients Which are regulated as They are Considered to be a health hazard.
Sibutramine is part of this family of anorectics Which acts on natural hormone regulation. A potential side effect is an increase in cardiovascular risk. In the early 2000s, two cases of death were Noted in Italy after a treatment with this substance. This was Followed by the withdrawal of the authorization in 2010 for the placing of the substance on the market Both in Europe and in the United States.
HOWEVER, this substance is found in the quiet Components of Herbal Teas, dietary supplements or energy drinks, Including Products That are imported. Contamination of plants, counterfeit pills or preparations thatwere made in the East of Europe and Asia Suggests a Need for ongoing monitoring. In 2011 more than forty cases of cross-contamination were Observed in Denmark; and almost 5,000 counterfeit capsules were intercepted in the Netherlands.
Sibutramine is not at isolated case, other substances: such as fenfluramine and its derivatives, ractopamine, or benfluorex are therefore subject to restrictions and regulations. In view of the need for vigilance, Eurofins ChemTox Provides a specific method for the determination of thesis analyte in food supplements and tablets using chromatography (LC-MS / MS) with a detection limit of Approximately 0.1 mg / kg DEPENDING on the analytes Determined.
Contact: vcirimele@labochemtox.com