PETALING JAYA, MALAYSIA - It was marketed as a premium ginseng candy priced at RM10 ($4) each, but instead of the herbal root, it contained sildenafil and tadalafil, the key compounds to treat erectile dysfunction.

Health Ministry enforcement officers recently intercepted a shipment of 68,000 herbal candies worth RM680,000 ($278,936) before it could be exported to China and the Middle East.

A Health Ministry source told the New Straits Times that the sex candies had been illegally produced in local factories at remote locations and were several times stronger than the normal Viagra pills.

"Investigations show that the manufacturer had intentionally mixed both compounds, sildenafil and tadalafil.

"Although used to treat erectile dysfunction, they are controlled drugs," the source revealed.

Following a tip-off, a ministry enforcement team carried out raids at several locations since last month.

The authorities learnt that the candies were being produced by several factories outside the Klang Valley before being sent to the headquarters of a direct-selling firm in Kuala Lumpur.

"Raids were conducted at several locations in Kuala Lumpur, Selangor, Negri Sembilan and Johor," the source added.

"The largest seizure was at a direct-selling outlet in Cheras."

The source also said based on the documents seized, there were plans to export the sex candies to the Middle East and several other countries, where the price was double.

"The distributors published misleading information on the candy's packaging to fool customers, claiming it contained plant extract and ginseng as the main ingredients."

The source said the case was being investigated under the Poisons Act 1952 and the Sales of Drugs Act 1952.

If convicted, the offender could be fined between RM25,000 and RM50,000, or imprisoned for two years.

In April, the ministry's enforcement team raided a company selling the sex sweets in Tampin, Negri Sembilan.

Numerous brands were found, including ginseng chocolate, Formula 193 sweets, Mentalk and Maca Gin chocolates.

Sildenafil and tadalafil are harmful substances, especially if consumed by those suffering from high blood pressure, heart disease or high cholesterol.

They can cause low blood pressure, leading to fainting spells or even sudden death.

Those with information on such activities can call the enforcement division at 03- 78413200.