Lab tests expose box claims as bogus
PUBLISHED : 18 Mar 2026 at 04:13
Protein supplements that are found to contain significantly less protein than the amounts stated on their labels could face serious legal action, including possible classification as “counterfeit food”, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has warned.
Speaking at the FDA headquarters, Dr Supatra Boonserm, secretary-general of the FDA, said the agency would seek additional details from the parties involved in the latest controversy over protein powder supplements after reports emerged that some tested products contained only 8.56 grammes of protein per 100 grammes, far below expected levels.
The FDA will request information on sample collection methods, testing procedures, and the standards used in the analysis to determine whether the results are scientifically reliable, she said.
Dr Supatra said the agency must verify whether the products tested were genuine goods from licensed manufacturers, noting that counterfeit or unauthorised products could also be present in the market.
“The FDA already has records of all approved products, including formulas, manufacturers, importers, and production sites,” she said. “We will compare the information provided by operators with the FDA database to verify the facts comprehensively.”
The controversy erupted after a supplement industry operator published test results for a popular protein powder product, showing that the actual protein content was just 8.56 grammes per 100 grammes, while carbohydrates or starch accounted for 79.5 grammes.
However, no brand names or commercially verifiable details have yet been officially confirmed, and the FDA stressed the matter remains under review.
Under FDA rules, actual nutrient content must not fall below 80% of the value declared on the label. If the discrepancy is significant and likely to mislead consumers, the product could be classified as counterfeit food.
Such violations can result in prison terms ranging from six months to 10 years, fines of 5,000 to 100,000 baht, or both.
Regulators also have the authority to suspend sales, seize products, or order recalls if violations are confirmed.
Dr Supatra said the FDA is intensifying oversight of dietary supplements, especially protein products, as the segment grows rapidly on the back of health and fitness trends.