Dutch product safety watchdog NVWA had fined dozens of companies selling products containing horse or donkey milk online for making false health claims.

The NVWA looked at 29 websites, 18 of which featured illegal medical claims saying the milk in their food supplements or drinks could cure or prevent hayfever, eczema, psoriasis and infection with coronavirus. There is no scientific proof for any of these claims, the NVWA said.

Health claims which suggest there is a positive link between a product and health are allowed but have to be approved by the EU.

Eight of the websites fell foul of that rule by saying that horse milk contributed to healthier joints and stronger bones. Another such claim suggested that horse milk helps digestion because horses’ and humans’ digestive systems are similar.

The companies making the false claims have been warned or fined and must remove the claims from their websites. If they don’t comply they will face higher financial penalties.