Food Standards Scotland issues warning on the dangers of DNP

Food Standards Scotland’s Scottish Food Crime & Incidents Unit has seized a quantity of powder believed to be the potentially deadly substance DNP.

DNP, or 2,4-Dinitrophenol, is an industrial chemical that has become popular amongst some people wanting to lose weight rapidly, including bodybuilders and people with eating disorders. DNP is usually sold online or via social media, as tablets or capsules.

DNP is poisonous to humans and can lead to severe health problems including blindness, high body temperature and even death. It is illegal to sell for human consumption and doing so could lead to a criminal prosecution.

Sales of DNP have been increasing in the UK in recent years, and a number of people have become seriously ill since the start of 2015, with DNP contributing to a  significant number of deaths and instances of serious harm to health in the UK.

The Scottish Food Crime & Incidents Unit is appealing for anyone in Scotland with information on the sale of DNP to report it to the free and confidential Scottish Food Crime Hotline,  which is operated in partnership with Crimestoppers on 0800 028 7926.

Ron McNaughton, Head of the Scottish Food Crime & Incidents Unit said: “The dangers of DNP have been well documented over recent years but people need to be aware that it can have serious consequences and even kill them. It’s vital that no-one puts themselves at risk by taking DNP.

“If you suspect you’ve been sold a product containing DNP or have any information about it being sold for weight loss, then please do not take it. Report it to our hotline on 0800 028 7926.”

Enquiries are continuing