Health · Public Health & Disease · 1 hr ago
Health Canada finds bacteria in unauthorized peptides sold online
Health Canada warned consumers not to use unauthorized peptides sold online after testing found three types of bacteria that could harm people.
The agency seized more than 11,400 vials from Shanghai ERP Peptide Biotechnology and two online retailers that sold its products.
Injectable peptides are generally regulated as prescription drugs in Canada and are advised to be used under the care of a licensed health professional.
These products are promoted for weight loss, muscle growth, anti-aging and wellness, but Health Canada has not assessed them for safety, effectiveness or quality.
The agency says untested products may contain harmful or unknown ingredients and can pose risks including blood clots, organ damage and hormonal or blood-sugar problems.
Health Canada asked ERP Peptide to stop selling the products in Canada and is working with the Canada Border Services Agency to block unauthorized shipments.
The agency urges consumers to stop buying them and seek immediate medical attention for fever or pain and swelling at an injection site after use.
Health Canada warned consumers not to use unauthorized peptides after tests found three types of bacteria in products sold online.
The agency said it seized more than 11,400 vials from Shanghai ERP Peptide Biotechnology Co. Ltd. and two online retailers that sold its products.
Injectable peptides are generally regulated as prescription drugs in Canada and are advised to be used under the care of a licensed healthcare professional.
Health Canada said unauthorized peptides have not been assessed for safety, efficacy or quality and may pose significant, unpredictable health risks.
The agency asked ERP Peptide to stop selling illegal products into Canada and urged consumers to stop buying them.
- Who
- Health Canada issued the warning. The products were sold by Shanghai ERP Peptide Biotechnology Co. Ltd. and two online retailers.
- What
- The agency warned consumers against using unauthorized peptides after tests found three types of bacteria in the products.
- When
- November 6, 2026.
- Where
- The products were sold online and seized in Canada.
- Why
- Lab testing found bacteria that could be harmful to humans. Health Canada said unauthorized products have not been assessed for safety, efficacy or quality.
This story does not have two clearly opposing sides.
Health Canada found three different bacteria that could be harmful to humans in the products.
Health Canada warned consumers not to use unauthorized peptides and said it had seized more than 11,400 vials.
- Bacteria found
- Three different types
- Vials seized
- More than 11,400
- Company
- Shanghai ERP Peptide Biotechnology Co. Ltd.
- Retailers
- Two online retailers
- Products named
- Human Chorionic Gonadotropin, MOTS-C, NAD+, Retatrutide, Tesamorelin and Tirzepatide
What people are saying
Selling unauthorized drug products is illegal. Unauthorized products have not been assessed for safety, efficacy, and quality by Health Canada. They have not been demonstrated, through scientific trials, to provide the health benefits that they claim.
While unauthorized peptides are often promoted for weight loss, muscle growth, anti-aging, or wellness, they may expose you to significant and unpredictable health risks.