Health risk warning over new weight-loss coffee

BAHRAIN'S health authorities yesterday warned people not to consume a coffee, which manufactures claim helps in weight loss.

The Lose Weight Coffee is not legally available in Bahrain, but people could get it from neighbouring countries, said Health Ministry's food control acting head Manal Al Sairifi.

"We have searched everywhere in Bahrain over the last few days to see if this product was available, but didn't come across any," she told the GDN.

"However, we are aware some stocks may be available in some places that may have escaped our attention."

Ms Al Sairifi said that action was taken after the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) banned the product after it was revealed to be a health risk.

"On analysis of the product, it was found that it contained sibutramin, which was once licensed as a weight reduction agent," she said.

"This licence was later cancelled and banned by the SFDA, as studies revealed that it was unsafe for human use and a health hazard."

Ms Al Sairifi said it also had serious side effects such as high susceptibility to heart and arteries diseases and it does not match with the alleged benefits of the product. She said Lose Weight Coffee was produced in China by Kunming Huining Company in the form of packs.

"We would like to alert all citizens and residents not to fall for such fake assurances," she said.

"This product is certainly no instant coffee and not meant for weight loss."

She said anyone who spots the product being sold or consumed in Bahrain should contact the directorate on 39427743.

From: Gulf Daily News