Rare eBay Warning Letter
Sketchy weight loss product attracts attention
There have been only four eBay-related warning letters in recent years, and two of them occurred this week. This shows that even platforms like eBay, Etsy, or Pinterest are being reviewed by FDA.
What is notable about this warning letter is that the FDA does not appear to have purchased or tested the product, which is often the case with more shady-looking weight-loss products. Instead, the apparent basis for the warning letter is the drug-related claims made for the “Googeer GLP-1 Weight Control Oral Solution” product. The claims cited are listed below. Admittedly, both the GLP-1 product name and these claims may raise compliance concerns. However, based on warning letter precedent, those issues alone are not typically enough to attract a warning letter unless they are accompanied by high-risk claims or GMP violations.
From warning letter. “Metabolism Support . . . Weight management Blood Sugar Balance”
From warning letter. “Ideal Body Shaping helps to shape a slim body.”
The product link from the warning letter has been taken down, so I looked on the Wayback Machine, and yes, the product does look very sketchy. Thanks FDA, for helping to take this potentially dangerous product off the market.
If we continue to see more warning letters involving products sold on eBay, do you think the FDA might begin citing eBay itself, rather than only the sellers, for distributing adulterated or otherwise illegal products? Historically, Amazon’s warning letters have involved Fulfilled by Amazon, where Amazon physically handled and distributed the products rather than hosting third-party sellers. That distinction likely plays an important role in the FDA’s decision about whether to direct a warning letter to the platform itself, such as Amazon, or to the individual seller. I write about this here.
Read this warning letter.
I may write about the other eBay warning letter in another WLW, but if you’re curious, please check it out.
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