Why you won't find certain supplements with us - and there are good reasons for this

Why certain supplements are not available from us – and why that makes sense

Are you looking for a popular pre-workout from abroad or a fat burner you saw on social media – but can’t find it at Vikingstore? The reason is not us, but Swiss law. Here’s why we are not allowed to sell certain products, even if there is strong demand.

Switzerland has its own laws – and they are stricter than in the EU

Unlike other countries, Switzerland applies strict regulations to dietary supplements, including:

·         FSVO (Federal Food Safety and Veterinary Office)

·         The Swiss Ordinance on Foodstuffs

·         The Novel Foods Ordinance

These rules protect consumers, but also restrict the availability of certain products that are not approved in Switzerland.

As a Swiss/Liechtenstein company, we are regularly inspected by these authorities without prior notice.

Common reasons why a product may not be sold

1. Excessive ingredient dosages

Example: A supplement containing 20 mg of zinc per serving – in Switzerland, the maximum allowed is 5.3 mg. The same applies to beta-alanine, citrulline or yohimbine in higher doses.

2. Novel Food – meaning "new" ingredients

These are substances that were not significantly consumed before 15 May 1997. They require a special approval process.

Examples:

·         Alpha-GPC

·         Tongkat Ali

·         Fadogia Agrestis

·         Cordyceps Sinensis

·         Hordenine

·         Agmatine

·         DMAE

·         Cannabinoids (CBD in food)

3. Ingredients with pharmacological effects

These are classified as medicinal products in Switzerland and cannot be sold freely.

Examples:

·         High-dose yohimbine

·         Ephedrine (banned and dangerous)

·         High-dose melatonin (pharmacy only)

·         DNP (banned and highly toxic)

4. Forbidden dosage forms

Example: Beta-alanine is only permitted in Switzerland in tablet form – and only under the following conditions:

·         Daily intake: 3.2 g

·         Maximum use: 8–10 weeks

·         Must be slow-release tablets

·         Must be taken in two separate servings, preferably with meals

What if you order from abroad?

If you order from a foreign shop, **you are personally responsible** for the import.

Swiss customs regularly checks shipments, especially dietary supplements. If a product is not approved, it can:

·         Be confiscated and destroyed

·         Be returned at your expense

In some cases, **fines or legal action** may follow. This applies even if the product is available in the EU (e.g. Germany, Austria, Netherlands) or in the USA. In Switzerland, it is illegal.

Why buying from us is safe

At Vikingstore, we only sell products that are legal and approved in Switzerland. That means:

·         No banned substances

·         No issues with customs

·         Full transparency and honest advice

·         Fast shipping from within Switzerland

Frequently asked questions

Why is product XY available on Amazon, Galaxus, etc., but not from you?

Because many platforms don’t check the legal status of products for the Swiss market. Even some Swiss shops act illegally – until they are audited. Ignorance is no excuse.

Why are your dosages lower?

Because we follow Swiss legal limits. Anything else would be illegal.

What about personal import?

It’s possible, but at your own risk. If customs steps in, you bear the consequences.

Our conclusion

We would love to offer everything that could support your training. But we only do so within the legal framework. Your safety comes first.

That’s why some products are not available from us – or are blocked for Swiss residents. If you’re unsure about a product or looking for a legal alternative, get in touch. We’ll give you an honest answer.