A Malaysian company has been fined RM10,000, or about S$2,900, after admitting to selling a coffee product that contained a prescription-only erectile dysfunction drug. The ruling was delivered by the Selayang Sessions Court, highlighting growing regional concerns over food safety, illegal health supplements, and unregulated “functional” beverages marketed to consumers.
The company, represented in court by its director, was found guilty of distributing a coffee product branded as “Kopi Jantan”, which laboratory analysis later revealed contained Tadalafil. Tadalafil is a regulated pharmaceutical substance commonly prescribed for erectile dysfunction and certain heart-related conditions, and is strictly prohibited for use as a food additive.
Health authorities stressed that the presence of such drugs in consumer food products poses serious public health risks, particularly when consumed unknowingly and without medical supervision.
Authorities Found High Levels of Prescription Drug in Coffee
Court proceedings revealed that 40 sachets of the coffee were sold to a health officer from the Gombak Health Office during an inspection at a food outlet in Batu Caves. Subsequent testing showed that the product contained 1,310.61 milligrams of Tadalafil per kilogram, a level considered extremely dangerous for unsupervised consumption.
The offence took place in August last year and was charged under multiple provisions of Malaysia’s Food Act 1983, which governs food safety standards and the prohibition of harmful substances in consumables. Prosecutors emphasised that Tadalafil is classified as a scheduled poison and can only be legally administered under prescription by a registered medical professional.
Medical experts have repeatedly warned that consuming erectile dysfunction drugs without proper screening can lead to severe side effects, including sudden drops in blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes, especially among individuals with underlying cardiovascular conditions.
Health Risks Raise Alarms Beyond Malaysia
Although the case occurred in Malaysia, it has wider implications for neighbouring countries, including Singapore, where similar “herbal” or “male vitality” coffee products have occasionally surfaced through online marketplaces and informal retail channels.
Public health specialists in Singapore have long cautioned consumers against health supplements and coffee products making exaggerated claims about stamina, virility, or energy enhancement. These products are often marketed as natural remedies, yet investigations frequently uncover undisclosed pharmaceutical ingredients that bypass regulatory approval.
Under Singapore’s health regulations, the sale of food or beverages containing prescription drugs is a serious offence that can result in heavy fines and imprisonment. The Health Sciences Authority has previously seized coffee sachets and supplements found to contain erectile dysfunction medications, appetite suppressants, and other banned substances.
Consumers Urged to Be Vigilant
The case serves as a reminder for consumers to remain cautious when purchasing “functional” food products, especially those promising rapid or dramatic health benefits. Authorities advise checking official product approvals, avoiding unverified online sellers, and seeking medical advice rather than relying on over-the-counter solutions that may compromise long-term health.
As interest in performance-enhancing supplements and speciality coffee continues to grow across the region, regulators are expected to step up enforcement to protect public health and maintain trust in food safety standards.