The Indian fitness market is booming, but so is the counterfeit supplement market. According to industry reports, nearly 30% of supplements sold in India are fake or adulterated. These products can harm your health and waste your hard-earned money. A report by Deccan Herald, with the annual growth rate of 4.86%, the market of training and gym is extamted to reach USD$598.86 million.
So, how do you ensure you’re buying genuine supplements? This blog by Fit Force Supplements, will show you 7 easy signs to identify fake supplements in India and how to stay safe.
Why Are Fake Supplements a Big Problem in India?
India is one of the biggest gym and supplement markets. It is the home to numerous gyms and fitness enthausiats. Thus, fake supplements is also a big concern in the Indian market. Here is why fake supplements a big problem in India:
- High demand for protein powders, mass gainers, creatine, and fat burners
- Lack of strict regulations in the supplement industry
- Cheap counterfeits from unverified sellers
Fake supplements often contain:
- Low-quality fillers instead of real protein
- Expired or relabeled products
- Harmful chemicals or steroids
7 Signs to Spot Fake Supplements in India
1. Check the Packaging Quality
Quality is important. Original brands invest in premium packaging. Look for:
- No spelling mistakes
- Smooth printing (not blurry)
- Intact seals and holograms
2. Verify the Batch Number & Expiry Date
Genuine supplements always have:
- Manufacturing & expiry date (not a sticker added later)
- Batch number printed clearly
3. Scan the QR Code or Authentication Code
Most reputed brands like 7PercentLabz, Wellcore, Next 30, Optimum Nutrition, MuscleBlaze, and MyProtein provide a QR code or scratch code for verification on their official website.
4. Compare the Price
Next is to compare the price. If it’s too cheap, it’s likely fake!
For example:
- 7PercentLabz Whey Protein (6 lbs) – ₹5,000–₹6,000
- If you see it for ₹2,000, it’s a red flag!
5. Look for FSSAI and Brand Labels
Always look for FSSAI certificate and brand labels. Genuine supplements have:
- Proper brand labeling and barcode
- FSSAI license number (mandatory in India)
6. Check the Texture, Smell & Taste
Fake protein powder may:
- Form lumps instead of mixing smoothly
- Smell odd or too sweet
7. Buy Only from Authorized Sellers
If you want quality supplements then always purchase from:
- Official brand websites like Fit Force Supplements
- Avoid shady Instagram sellers or unknown marketplaces
- Certified retailers
How to Verify Authenticity Online in India?
Here are the steps to verify authenticity online in India:
- Visit the brand’s official authentication page
- Enter or scan the unique code from your product
- Confirm whether your product is original
Few Bonus Tips to Stay Safe
- Check customer reviews on trusted platforms
- Never buy unsealed or loose supplements
- Avoid sellers with no return policy
Where to Buy Authentic Supplements in India?
If you want to purchase authentic gym supplements at best prices, then visit Fit Force Supplements. We sell 100% genuine, FSSAI-certified products from top brands like:
- 7PercentLabz
- Wellcore
- MuscleBlaze
- Next 30
- Optimum Nutrition
- GNC
Also, we offer a wide range of other supplements inlcuding Muscle Gainers, BCAAs, etc. Every order comes with an authenticity guarantee and direct sourcing from official distributors.
Authenticity Guide – Fit Force Supplements Promise
At Fit Force Supplements, we take your health seriously. The entire product range available at our website is 100% quality assured, tested and available at affordable prices.
Every product you buy from us is:
- Directly sourced from authorized distributors
- FSSAI-certified
- Backed by an authenticity guarantee
So, shop genuine and Buy Authentic Gym Supplements Online in India from Fit Force Supplements.
Fake Supplements in India – FAQs
Q1: How common are fake supplements in India?
A: Studies suggest up to 30% of supplements sold online/offline are fake or adulterated.
Q2: How can I check if my supplement is real?
A: Use the QR code or scratch code on the packaging and verify it on the official brand site.
Q3: How common are fake supplements in India?
A: Reports indicate a significant rise in counterfeit supplements—some estimates suggest nearly 60% of products sold online or through unverified sellers may be fake.
Q4: Can fake supplements harm my health?
A: Yes! They can cause liver damage, kidney issues, hormonal imbalance, and even food poisoning.
Q5: How can I verify a supplement using QR or barcode scanning?
A: Many authentic brands include QR codes or barcodes that, when scanned, take you to the brand’s official verification portal to confirm batch authenticity.
Q6: Why do fake supplements cost less?
A: Because they use cheap fillers and duplicate packaging instead of real ingredients.
Q7: Are vague labels like “proprietary blend” a red flag?
A: Yes. Legit brands provide ingredient transparency with exact dosages. Labels with terms like “proprietary blend” without details make it nearly impossible to verify contents and quality.
Q8: Where is the safest place to buy supplements in India?
A: From authorized retailers like FitForceSupplements.in or the brand’s official store.
Q9: What dangerous ingredients might fake supplements contain?
A: Fake or low-quality supplements may include harmful fillers like titanium dioxide, artificial sweeteners, magnesium stearate, or even unlisted pharmaceuticals that can lead to inflammation or long-term health risks.
Q10: Are supplements from social media sellers more likely to be fake?
A: Yes, supplements sold by unverified social media sellers or unauthorized marketplaces often lack quality controls, certifications, and return policies.
