Health Canada alerts consumers of possible risks of purchasing cosmetics online

Health Canada has issued a safety update that alerts consumers of the possible risks of purchasing products such as cosmetics through online platforms.

According to the agency, many of the products available through online platforms are not compliant with the regulations of the country.

Over the recent years, there has been an increase in the number of consumer products and cosmetics from around the world sold through online sites in Canada.

Consumers have been told to be aware that some online products could be prohibited in Canada, or may have been recalled due to failure to meet health or safety standards, the agency stated.

Furthermore, there could be a risk of counterfeit products being sold online.

Health Canada stated that is working with international partners to assess the risks associated with the online market.

Recently, it took part in an initiative of the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) to conduct a review of prohibited products available online.

By early next year, it plans to conduct a follow-up survey of online retailers.

Health Canada also noted that it will continue to work with its OECD partners to raise awareness of safety risks of shopping online for cosmetics and other consumer products.