17 November 2003
OTTAWA - The Canadian Food Inspection Agency has launched an investigation into nutritional supplements such as power drinks, energy bars and weight-loss preparations.
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An internal report by the federal inspectors questions the safety of energy bars and power drinks, saying they contain ingredients not stated on the label.
The CFIA claims that could jeopardize the health of people who are allergic to certain ingredients.
The report also says some of those products make health and performance claims that can't be substantiated.
"The presence in many of these products of non-permitted substances with pharmacological activity, excessive levels of vitamins and minerals and undeclared common food allergens put the health of Canadians at risk," said the report.
"In addition, the substitution in these products of desirable and expensive ingredients with inexpensive ingredients is a common type of fraud that results in economic loss for consumers," it said.
"Claims for health and performance benefits which cannot be substantiated are another form of fraud common among these products," the report said.
Although power drinks and energy bars were initially used only by athletes who were trying to build muscle, they're now used by many people looking for a quick boost or a meal replacement.
Written by CBC News Online staff
