Spanish National Police, in a joint operation with Barcelona and L'Hospitalet de Llobregat health inspection teams, seized 216 bottles of "miracle shakes" from local supermarkets in February. These products, advertised to cure erectile dysfunction, contained dangerous toxic substances and resulted in two arrests.
Hazardous Ingredients Uncovered
The seized products, amounting to approximately 60 litres, contained sildenafil and tadalafil. These are active ingredients found in prescription medications for erectile dysfunction. They cannot be sold without a medical prescription. The shakes also included "black shell" or "red crab" from Ecuador. This ingredient is prohibited in Spain because it contains high levels of heavy metals, making it toxic for human consumption.
Consuming these unregulated and illegally sold shakes posed a serious risk to public health. Individuals who drank the liquid could suffer severe intoxication and other adverse health effects. The authorities acted to protect residents from these hazardous products.
Illegal Marketing and Sales
The investigation started when police discovered a supermarket chain selling dangerous products imported from South America. These establishments used their social media channels to promote the shakes. They falsely advertised the products' efficacy for erectile dysfunction. The police mobilised after recognising the illegal nature and significant health dangers involved.
Coordinated Enforcement Action
The joint operation in February inspected four specific premises across Barcelona and L'Hospitalet. This coordinated effort between the police and local councils aimed to remove the hazardous items from circulation. Authorities also found diet pills and nearly four kilograms of "black shell" or "red crab" without verifiable origin. These ingredients are also prohibited in countries like Argentina and Colombia.
Police arrested the company administrator and their daughter during the operation. Six other individuals are currently under investigation in connection with the illegal distribution and sale of these products. The authorities continue their efforts to ensure consumer safety regarding unregulated health supplements.
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Originally published by El Caso (El Nacional). Read original article.
