The chairman of A-share listed Kelun Pharmaceutical (002422) has sparked controversy by endorsing ergothioneine supplements, drawing criticism from prominent biologist Rao Yi. On June 5, Rao publicly questioned the scientific validity of the anti-aging claims, triggering market concerns that impacted the company’s stock price.
Kelun Pharmaceutical’s securities department defended the product, stating it possesses “sufficient scientific evidence” for anti-aging effects. The company’s health subsidiary later responded via WeChat, arguing Rao’s dismissal of dietary supplements as “invalid without drug approval” reflected bias. However, investigations reveal the product lacks required health food certification from Chinese regulators.
Under China’s regulations, products without official health food approval cannot legally advertise health benefits and must be marketed as ordinary food items. This regulatory gap raises questions about Kelun’s marketing practices, particularly given the chairman’s high-profile promotion of the uncertified supplement. The dispute highlights growing tensions between commercial health claims and scientific scrutiny in China’s rapidly expanding wellness market.
Market observers note the controversy comes at a sensitive time for Kelun, as investors increasingly scrutinize pharmaceutical companies’ diversification into consumer health products. The case may prompt tighter oversight of executive endorsements and health claims for uncertified supplements in China’s regulated markets.
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