Online shopping makes wellness products easier to find than ever, but it has also made it easier for counterfeit and repackaged products to reach customers. Fake supplements can contain the wrong ingredients, the wrong amounts, or nothing useful at all. Here are seven checks we use ourselves, and that you can use anywhere you shop.
1. Check the price
If a price is dramatically lower than everywhere else, ask why. Genuine products have real costs. Deep, permanent discounts are one of the most common signs of fakes or expired stock.
2. Inspect the seal
Genuine products arrive with an intact safety seal under the lid or around the cap. A missing, loose or re-glued seal is a red flag. Don't use the product.
3. Look closely at the packaging
Blurry printing, spelling mistakes, odd fonts or colours that look "off" compared with the brand's official photos are common signs of counterfeits.
4. Find the batch number and expiry date
Authentic products carry a clearly printed batch (lot) number and expiry date. Missing, smudged or sticker-covered dates should make you cautious.
5. Check registration and certification
In Malaysia, many supplements carry a registration number from the health authorities (such as a MAL number). Look for relevant certifications on the pack, like halal certification where applicable. You can often verify them online.
6. Know who you're buying from
Buy from sellers who clearly show their company details, have a physical address and a way to contact them. A registered business is accountable. An anonymous account often isn't.
7. Trust your senses
If the texture, smell, colour or taste is noticeably different from what you've had before, stop using it and contact the seller.
Our promise
At VitaMora, we only list products from trusted brands. Every item is 100% authentic and arrives new and sealed. VitaMora is operated by Harazi General Trading Sdn. Bhd. (SSM No. 202201006110), so you always know who you're buying from. Have a question about a product? Contact us anytime.
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