According to the initiator, within the framework of the EAEU, only those dietary supplements that have undergone state registration are allowed for sale. However, there has been a sharp increase in the sales of dietary supplements in Kyrgyzstan, most of which have not been registered either in our country or in other neighboring states of the Eurasian Economic Union. This poses a serious threat to public health.
Kalpaev emphasizes that until 2017, dietary supplements in the republic were considered medicinal products, but later they were removed from this list and classified as food products.The deputy notes that many manufacturers and sellers of dietary supplements continue to present their products as medicines, using false information in advertising and creating a misleading impression among consumers that these supplements can replace full-fledged treatment. Advertising materials often feature people in white coats and with medical attributes, creating the illusion of approval from medical professionals.
Moreover, Kalpaev points out the use of religious motives in the advertising of dietary supplements, which occurs through symbolism, words, and musical accompaniment.
This is a subtle yet effective manipulation technique that resonates with believers, creating a sense that the product has spiritual approval or special power. Additionally, children often appear in advertisements, prompting parents to purchase such products, the safety of which for children is not confirmed."The greatest concern is that some citizens trust such advertising. Dietary supplements are not medicines. They do not treat, diagnose, or prevent diseases. The biggest risk is that patients, convinced of the effectiveness of dietary supplements, may refuse necessary treatment, leading to the progression of the disease," says Kalpaev.
The bill proposes to prohibit the advertising of dietary supplements if it:
- creates the illusion that dietary supplements are medicines or possess healing properties, including mentioning specific diseases;
- uses images of medical professionals and attributes that imitate medical practice;
- includes religious symbols or images of religious figures;
- is directed at or belongs to minors;
- contains references to individual cases of healing or other consumer testimonials.
