Guardia Civil officers have reported the owner of a 24-hour supermarket in Barcelona for public health offences after discovering 246 sachets of "Royal Honey" containing sildenafil, the active ingredient in Viagra. The discovery occurred during an inspection for suspected electricity fraud. This incident highlights the risks associated with unregulated products sold in some establishments across the city, posing a significant concern for residents and visitors alike.

Undeclared Sildenafil Content

The Spanish Agency of Medicines and Medical Products (AEMPS) had previously withdrawn the honey-based food supplement due to its undeclared sildenafil content. Sildenafil, commonly known as Viagra, is a potent active ingredient used in medications for erectile dysfunction. Consuming such products without medical supervision can cause potentially serious health side effects, especially for individuals with underlying health conditions. The Guardia Civil stated, "products containing undeclared active pharmacological substances are considered unauthorised medicines, making their sale prohibited." Officers initially found 160 sachets of the Thai-manufactured "Royal Honey," each weighing 15 grams, stored under the counter during their first inspection. They also issued a report against the owner for potential electricity fraud and accused him of contraband.

City-Wide Operation Targets Fraud

The investigation began as part of a large-scale operation targeting 26 24-hour supermarkets across Barcelona for suspected electricity fraud. This broader initiative aimed to identify and address illegal electrical connections and consumption, which can pose safety risks and economic losses. Following the initial seizure of the honey sachets, officers sent a product sample to the AEMPS for analysis. The agency subsequently confirmed the presence of sildenafil in its composition, providing crucial evidence for the public health charges against the supermarket owner. This operation demonstrates authorities' commitment to ensuring compliance with both health and utility regulations within the city.

Repeated Sales and False Invoice

Upon returning to notify the owner of the public health charges, officers discovered an additional 86 sachets of the same product prominently displayed on the counter. This finding indicated a clear disregard for the initial intervention and a continued attempt to sell the unauthorised product. The owner reportedly provided a false invoice for the purchase of the honey sachets, further complicating the legal situation and suggesting an intent to deceive. The Guardia Civil seized these additional sachets, meticulously documenting the suspect's repeated attempts to sell the honey containing the erectile dysfunction medication. This persistence in selling a prohibited substance underscores the challenges authorities face in regulating such illicit trade.

The supermarket owner now faces charges related to public health and contraband, alongside the initial report for electricity fraud. This case serves as a reminder for consumers to exercise caution regarding unregulated health supplements and for businesses to adhere strictly to legal and safety standards. Authorities continue their efforts to monitor and address such illicit activities in Barcelona.

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Originally published by El Periódico Barcelona. Read original article.