How to Identify Fake Supplements in India
Buying supplements in India? Here’s how to avoid fakes and choose safe, effective, and authentic products.
The Growing Problem of Counterfeit Supplements
According to FSSAI reports and independent studies, India has seen a 60% increase in counterfeit or spurious supplement cases in the last 5 years.
- Many powders and pills are laced with banned steroids or unapproved chemicals
- Supplements may not contain the stated dosage or ingredients
- Online marketplaces are flooded with fakes that look like genuine products
The health consequences range from ineffective results to serious toxicity and organ failure.
Red Flags: Signs a Supplement May Be Fake
Before you buy, check for these warning signs:
- No FSSAI license number on label
- Missing batch number or expiry date
- Poor packaging or spelling mistakes
- Unrealistic claims (e.g., ‘Lose 10 kg in 7 days’, ‘100% muscle gain’)
- Unusually low price compared to market rate
- Foreign brand without import details or distributor info
If it looks too good to be true — it usually is.
How to Read a Supplement Label (Like a Pro)
Authentic brands provide transparent, informative labels. Look for:
- FSSAI logo and license number (starts with 100 or 107)
- Full ingredient list with quantities
- Serving size and suggested usage
- Manufacturer details with address
- Third-party testing or certification mark (if available)
Avoid products that hide ingredients behind vague terms like 'proprietary blend' without specifics.
Buy from Trusted Sources Only
Where you buy your supplement matters more than what you buy.
- Buy directly from the brand’s official website or store
- Use certified platforms like Amazon with ‘Fulfilled’ or ‘Verified Seller’ tags
- Avoid unknown sellers on social media or classifieds
- Cross-check the packaging with brand website photos
At OnlyLife, we sell exclusively via our official website and select authorized partners — zero chances of fakes.
Imported Supplements: What to Know
Imported supplements are often counterfeited. Here’s how to verify:
- Ask for customs-cleared documents if buying from stores
- Look for importer sticker with license info
- Ensure proper English labeling (FDA-approved US brands have strict guidelines)
- Avoid parallel imports from UAE or Southeast Asia without quality checks
Buying Indian-made, FSSAI-approved supplements is often safer and equally effective.
Testing & QR Codes: New Safety Features
Many quality Indian brands now use smart tech to verify authenticity:
- QR code scans for batch verification
- Scratch codes to check authenticity online
- 3rd-party lab reports accessible via brand website
Always scan or check if the product offers this verification — it’s your health on the line.
What to Do If You Suspect a Fake
If you believe you’ve bought a fake supplement:
- Stop using the product immediately
- Report it to FSSAI via their food safety app or website
- Contact the brand (if listed) to verify
- Leave a review or alert others online
Early reporting helps regulators crack down on counterfeit networks.
Final Word: Safety First, Always
Your health is too valuable to risk on cheap, suspicious products. Don’t fall for hype, price cuts, or influencer ads alone. Choose science-backed, regulatory-compliant brands with transparent sourcing and labels.
OnlyLife proudly meets all Indian supplement regulations and goes a step beyond with lab-tested, body-specific formulations — 100% clean, 100% safe.
India is one of the fastest-growing markets for nutrition supplements. From protein powders and multivitamins to testosterone boosters and herbal pills, shelves and e-commerce platforms are full of options. But with rising demand comes a dangerous downside — counterfeit and substandard supplements. These fake products not only waste your money but can also pose serious health risks, including liver damage, allergic reactions, and toxic contamination. In this blog, we’ll guide you through identifying fake supplements in India, how to read labels, spot red flags, and choose brands that prioritize your health and trust.
Not sure which supplement is right for you? Take our quiz — it’s free and tailored to Indian lifestyles.
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