The prosecution decided on Friday not to file charges against Korean biotech firm Natural Endotech whose health products were found to include a banned substance.

Suwon District Prosecutor’s Office concluded that the firm did not intentionally use the illegal herb to make its products.

However, prosecutors confirmed that Natural Endotech did not have a sufficient inspection system to prevent the toxic ingredient ― Cynanchum auriculatum Royal ― from being blended in its products.

The decision came nearly two months after the Korea Consumer Agency filed a complaint against the firm for selling fake health products using the ingredient which is a cheaper alternative to Chinese traditional medicine Cynanchum wilfordii.

Both the ingredients look similar, but Cynanchum auriculatum Royal is strictly banned from use for human consumption by the Korean government due to its toxicity.

Cynanchum wilfordii, called “baeksuho” in Korean, has enjoyed popularity among the middle-aged in recent years, for its medicinal effects that allegedly treat various geriatric diseases, strengthen the immune system and improve blood circulation.

By Ock Hyun-ju (laeticia.ock@heraldcorp.com)