Overseas direct-purchase food product found with additional narcotic ingredient

South Korean authorities have detected a new narcotic ingredient, tapentadol, in an overseas direct-purchase food product that was already banned for containing the steroid dexamethasone. This marks the first confirmed case of a "newly modified item" with additional illicit substances entering the country.

The product, marketed as 'TAWON LIAR' and promoted for various ailments in Indonesia, was initially flagged for containing dexamethasone. However, further analysis by the Incheon Airport Customs revealed the presence of tapentadol, a potent opioid known for potentially life-threatening respiratory depression.

Tapentadol is classified as a narcotic under South Korean law. The Ministry of Food and Drug Safety has now designated it as a prohibited ingredient for import, effectively blocking any products containing it from entering the country. This proactive measure aims to prevent the domestic circulation of such harmful substances.

The discovery of 'TAWON LIAR' with its altered composition underscores the challenges in regulating the influx of overseas direct-purchase goods. The ministry maintains a list of 313 prohibited ingredients and components to safeguard public health.