About half of the oyster and clam extract products sold on the market contain unhealthy levels of sodium, the Consumers’ Foundation said yesterday.
Oyster and clam extracts typically come in the form of liquid or pills and are widely sold in supermarkets, retail chains and online shopping Web sites.
Many advertisements claim the extracts, rich in amino acids and zinc, can cure erectile dysfunction, protect the liver, strengthen the immune system and give men more energy and sexual stamina.
However, a survey conducted by the foundation in April on 12 types of oyster and clam extract products sold in Taiwan showed that half failed to meet regulations on sodium content and labeling.
The Department of Health prohibits an error margin beyond 20 percent on nutrition labeling of packaged foodstuffs. Six of the products surveyed by the foundation contained amounts of sodium exceeding the 20 percent rule.
“The false nutrition information shown on the packaging could cause those who consume the oyster and clam extracts to take in too much sodium and thereby threaten their health,” said Yu Kai-hsiung (游開雄), publisher of the foundation’s Consumer Reports Magazine.
Health authorities recommend that adults consume no more than 2.4g of sodium each day.
Excessive consumption of sodium, which is usually caused by eating too much processed or artificially flavored foods, or adding too much salt or soy sauce, could result in an increased risk of high blood pressure and even lead to strokes.
“For people with certain health problems, the recommended daily intake of sodium is even lower. If, in addition to their daily meals, they consume three bottles [of oyster and clam extract], they could be consuming too much sodium and harm their health,” Yu said.
Authorities have ordered the manufacturers to recall their inappropriately labeled products and make the required changes before the products are allowed back on the shelves, or face heavy fines.
The foundation said that even though certain products are certified as health supplements, consumers should be careful about how much they consume. Overconsumption of oyster and clam extracts could damage the liver and kidneys and therefore people with chronic illnesses should consult a doctor about using such supplements, it said.
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