Minister of Health Mam Bun Heng has announced the immediate closure of Kin Herb Khmer Shop and warned customers not to use its product, Amla Ginger & Curcumin.
The decision followed the discovery that the product contained the potentially harmful substances betamethasone and meloxicam.
An August 15 press release from the ministry revealed that the National Health Products Quality Control Centre had analysed the product and found that it contained corticosteroid betamethasone and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication meloxicam, posing significant risks to health.
Found in 120-gramme bottles, it was promoted on the Facebook page Kantuot Prey Sokpheab.
“Therefore, I ask all people to put an abrupt stop to using the product,” the press release said.
“We will collaborate with relevant ministries, institutions and authorities to shut down Kin Herb Khmer Shop. We will also collect the products for destruction and take legal action against any products not properly manufactured or authorised by the health ministry,” said the release.
Hean Kim, chairman of the ministry’s Department of Drugs and Food, said an inspection revealed that the shop had operated without a permit.
“We will continue to investigate the substances sold there. If needed, we will pursue legal action against the owner,” he said.
The shop, located in Chaom Chao II commune of Phnom Penh’s Por Sen Chey district, had drawn concern from various health officials.
Ley Sopheap, president of the Medical Pharmacist Association of Cambodia, expressed strong support for the ministry’s move. He warned of the dangers to consumer health if such shops continued to operate.
He stressed the broader issue, suggesting that the ministry also act against other similar health supplements.
“We don’t support a small group of ill-intentioned people who affect millions. This shop deserved closure and legal action.
“I’ve consistently reported to local authorities about such cases. Many others are under investigation to ensure the safety of our citizens. It’s my duty to protect them,” he said.
