Question : STEROID IN DIETARY SUPPLEMENTS

(a) whether the Food and Drug Administration of United States brought to the knowledge of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India that there is a possibility that some products containing steroids or steroid-like substances are making way into Indian markets as dietary supplements;

(b) if so, the action taken by the Government to ban the use of such dietary supplements in the country;

(c) whether any initiative has been taken to create awareness about the long term health problems, such dietary supplements may cause; and

(d) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF THE STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH & FAMILY WELFARE (SHRI DINESH TRIVEDI)

(a) The Food and Drug Administration of USA has cautioned against a possibility of entry of such product into India particularly through internet marketing.

(b) No such report of entry of products in country has been received. However, an advisory has been sent to all concerned including Customs Commissioners.

(c)& (d) The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India have issued a ‘Press note cum Advisory’ about products containing steroid/steroid like substances marketed as Dietary Supplement for general information.