Panama Health Ministry Warns Against Unsanitary Cosmetics

Panama's Ministry of Health (Minsa) has issued a stern warning against the purchase and use of unauthorized cosmetic products. The alert, disseminated through the National Directorate of Pharmacy and Drugs, targets items falsely labeled as manufactured by E&M Chemical Int. This company, according to Minsa, operates without the necessary licenses or Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) certification, rendering its products unsanitary and unregistered.

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The alert, issued through the National Directorate of Pharmacy and Drugs, arises after detecting products that label E&M Chemical Int. as the manufacturer, a company that, according to Minsa, does not have an operating license nor a Good Manufacturing Practices (BPM) Certificate.

Among the specific products flagged are DERMOCLEAN antibacterial antiseptic soap and DAYLI hand soap. The health authority has directed distributors and retailers to immediately cease sales and distribution of these items. Minsa also highlighted the promotion of these and other cosmetic and antiseptic products via social media under the account "emmchemical" with the profile "E&MM CHEMICAL," noting this online seller is also not a registered establishment.

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The health authority urged distributors, marketers, and establishments to immediately suspend their sale and distribution.

Consumers are strongly advised to avoid purchasing cosmetics from street vendors, social media, or unverified online platforms. Minsa recommends verifying that products have a valid sanitary registration, which can be checked through the Directorate's official system. The public is encouraged to report any illicit sales activities or adverse reactions experienced from using these products to the relevant authorities. The ministry emphasizes that ensuring product safety and compliance with sanitary regulations is paramount for public health.

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Minsa recommended that the public not buy cosmetics on the street, social media, or internet pages that do not offer guarantees about their origin, manufacturing, storage, and transport.