Post by : Shakul
The Thai government is intensifying efforts to regulate the advertisement and sale of "edible gold leaf" products due to rising concerns regarding misleading claims and potential health risks associated with their online sales. Officials express that numerous products being advertised on social media as "24K edible gold" or "food-grade gold" may lack essential safety certifications for human consumption.
Minister Supamas Isarabhakdi, who oversees the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), has called for an urgent investigation into the increasing number of advertisements for edible gold across various online platforms. The administration is particularly worried about products marketed for enhancing desserts, bakery goods, beverages, and luxury foods.
Reports indicate that many online vendors are promoting metallic decorative foils as suitable for consumption without proper endorsement from health or food safety authorities. Officials caution that consumers could inadvertently buy unsafe items merely because they are labeled enticingly as "pure gold" or "consumable gold."
The OCPB is collaborating with Thailand’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to assess these items and determine whether they comply with food safety regulations. Authorities are also urging major online marketplaces to take down ads and listings that contain misleading or exaggerated claims regarding edible gold products.
Minister Supamas has indicated that certain products may only serve as decorative elements rather than being safe for consumption. She has highlighted that prolonged intake of uncertified metallic materials might pose health risks to consumers if they are not intended for direct food use.
The government is encouraging consumers to meticulously examine product labels prior to purchase. Buyers are advised to ensure that products explicitly state their safety for consumption, verify manufacturer details, and be cautious of exceptionally cheap items claiming to be pure edible gold without appropriate proof or certification.
Officials have reiterated that online enterprises are obligated to advertise honestly and offer accurate product information instead of enticing consumers with luxury marketing claims. Authorities have indicated that legal actions may be pursued against sellers found violating consumer protection regulations.
This latest initiative by Thailand mirrors a growing global emphasis on online food safety amid the burgeoning popularity of luxury-themed food items on social media platforms. Ongoing investigations and monitoring operations are expected to utilize the upcoming weeks.
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