SAHPRA calls for removal of children’s supplements containing zinc picolinate and selenium from shelves

Mapaballo Borotho

SAHPRA has warned that children’s supplements containing zinc picolinate and selenium may pose health risks and are not permitted for use in those under 18.
The authority has urged health professionals and retailers to stop selling and distributing these products and remove them from shelves.
Parents have been advised to return affected products, which must be withdrawn from the market within six months.

The South African Health Products Regulatory Authority (SAHPRA) has issued a warning about certain health products currently on the market that may pose health risks to children under the age of 18.

The products contain zinc picolinate and selenium, ingredients that SAHPRA has identified as not permitted in health supplements intended for children.

According to SAHPRA, zinc picolinate at any supplemental dose may cause side effects such as indigestion, diarrhoea, headaches, nausea and vomiting. The authority has further stated that zinc picolinate is unsuitable as a source of elemental zinc supplementation for children.

SAHPRA has also raised concerns about selenium, noting that while it may be necessary for children in cases of famine or severe dietary restriction, its use in general supplements poses a risk of overdose.

The authority said differences in recommended daily selenium intake among population groups make its inclusion in children’s supplements a potential safety concern.

SAHPRA spokesperson Yuven Gounden has called on health professionals to immediately cease the distribution, sale and dispensing of all products containing zinc picolinate and selenium that are intended for use in children.

He also urged retailers to remove these products from shelves, storage facilities and warehouses.

“Members of the public are urged to return products containing zinc picolinate and selenium, when intended for use in children, to their pharmacist, supplying warehouse or distributor,” Gounden said.

He added that all medicines containing these ingredients and intended for children must be withdrawn from the market within six months from the date of publication.