Algerian Organization for Consumer Protection Warns of Rising Risks from Unregulated Dietary Supplements

Algiers — Unregulated and unidentified dietary supplements are posing a serious public health risk in Algeria, particularly amid intensive online promotion portraying them as “miracle cures” for chronic and serious diseases such as diabetes and cancer.

The growing perception among some consumers that dietary supplements can function as effective treatments for conditions such as infertility, cancer and other incurable diseases has led certain patients to abandon medically prescribed treatments. Health professionals warn that this behaviour may result in worsening conditions, delayed diagnosis and ineffective treatment outcomes.

Experts stress that these products are widely promoted on social media platforms without scientific validation or regulatory oversight, often by influencers using persuasive marketing techniques. In contrast, television advertising of such products has been banned in Algeria.

In this context, Fadi Tamim, National Coordinator of the Algerian Organization for Consumer Protection and Guidance, warned that some of these supplements may contain toxic substances capable of causing serious complications affecting the liver, kidneys and heart. He noted that certain products are reportedly manufactured in informal or unregulated facilities, increasing their potential danger to consumers.

Tamim explained that misleading claims surrounding these supplements have exploited the vulnerability of individuals suffering from chronic illnesses, leading some to fall victim to fraudulent online schemes.

He cited a case reported to the organization involving a woman who was deceived by a social media influencer promoting a so-called “magical mixture” advertised as a treatment for female infertility. Instead, she received a product intended for male fertility, revealing the absence of transparency and accountability in such transactions. Further investigation suggested that the influencer herself was unaware of the true origin of the products, which were linked to an unidentified network.

He also referred to another case uncovered by security services involving a product marketed as a skin-whitening and anti-aging “miracle cream” in Tlemcen. Investigations revealed that the product was in fact made from crushed Viagra tablets mixed with herbal substances and illegally imported by individuals operating outside formal regulatory channels.

Tamim warned that these practices constitute a direct threat to consumer safety and described unregulated dietary supplements and homemade mixtures as a “ticking time bomb.” He stressed that combating informal trade in such products is the first step toward addressing the issue, especially since many are sold without medical prescriptions.

He further called for a strict ban on online advertising and social media promotion of such supplements, noting that many accounts use fake identities and untraceable contact information to mislead consumers and evade accountability.