Maldives Food and Drug Authority has stated today that it is prohibited to market food items with claims of weight-loss or other changes to the body. 

In a statement issued today, MFDA stated that it has come to their notice that some are encouraging the marketing and consumption of food items promising weight loss or cures to various ailments. 

Marketing products with unverified, non-scientific claims can mislead the public and pose health risks, MFDA said. 

The statement comes in the wake of public concern surrounding the sale of a powder on TikTok promising weight loss within a short period of time. 

MFDA reminded that circulating information to promote a food product on various platforms falls under food advertising as per existing regulations. 

"It is prohibited to advertise a food product in this way, promising a specific health benefit or cure to an ailment. It is also prohibited to advertise food products claiming special qualities in a misleading or unverified manner," MFDA's statement reads. 

MFDA warned against false advertising of food products and urged full compliance with food marketing regulations. 

It also advised the public to avoid items promoted with unverified claims and to prioritize healthy practices such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and reduced sugar and salt intake.