Advertising food products by claiming they aid weight loss or treat medical conditions is prohibited: MFDA
23 ޖުލައި 2026 | ބުރާސްފަތި 10:07The MFDA has warned that advertising food products with unsubstantiated weight-loss claims poses a significant risk to public health. Noting that disseminating misleading information is a regulatory offense, the Authority urged the public—particularly patients and pregnant women—to exercise caution regarding such products.
The building housing the Ministry of Health.
The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has announced that it is prohibited to advertise food products by claiming they aid in weight loss or serve as treatments for various medical conditions.
The MFDA stated in a press release that it has observed several parties marketing and advertising various products claiming to aid in weight loss and the treatment of various medical conditions.
The authority noted that marketing these products using unsubstantiated information not based on scientific research could mislead consumers and potentially lead to adverse health effects.
The MFDA has warned that this could pose significant health risks, particularly for individuals undergoing treatment for chronic illnesses, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.
The authority stated that it is prohibited to advertise food products in a manner that implies specific health benefits or suggests they can treat various medical conditions.
Furthermore, the MFDA stated that under the relevant regulations, it is prohibited to advertise food products in a false or misleading manner that misrepresents their quality or specific characteristics.
This statement was issued at a time when numerous food products are being marketed with claims that they aid in weight loss. The MFDA has urged the public to remain vigilant against such advertisements, noting that they are misleading and potentially harmful to consumers.
The MFDA has emphasized the importance of providing accurate information in food advertisements, noting that such claims must be supported by scientific evidence. The Authority stated that monitoring these matters is a core responsibility aimed at protecting public health.
