Authentic STUD 100® packaging will feature French translations, whereas the fake will not.

The counterfeit bottle (left) generally uses a completely different design based on the old bottle artwork. The differences are pretty clear from the real bottle (right). Pay attention to the logo, layout of the information and the lack of a DIN number.

The counterfeit packaging (top) may also list a LOT number and expiry date, although it is also usually just printed on the box... which is useless. The real process involves punching each individual box with a LOT number and expiry date that will match the can inside it. The real box is on the bottom.

STUD 100® has upgraded their packaging to be compliant with Health Canada’s strict yet necessary standards. This means it is now easier than ever to spot authentic product from counterfeit.

The packaging and the can will have a matching DIN (Drug Identification Number). If they do not match, or either the can, box, or both do not have a DIN, it is most likely a counterfeit item or has been illegally smuggled into Canada.

1) The spray nozzle on the counterfeit Stud 100® (left) is dirty and cheap. It does not produce and even spray. The real STUD 100® (right) features a metered spray nozzle which produces the correct amount of spray per pump. This is important for efficacy and consistency.

2) The gold neck on the fake bottle (left) is less yellow than the real bottle (on the right). Counterfeit bottles are also sealed using a different method which may cause leaking of the product.

Counterfeit bottles like the one on the left may not have a LOT number and expiry date punched on to the bottom surface of the can like the real one on the right. If they do have a LOT and expiry date, it has most likely been printed on to the can which means every can they produce would have a fake LOT and expiry which serves no purpose for your safety. This LOT number is an assurance to you that Stud 100® is made in strict conditions and marked accordingly with each batch produced.

The counterfeit packaging is generally the closest to the real and the differences are hard to spot at first. If you look closely enough, it becomes easy to spot.

It's difficult to see here, but currently, the real boxes have a matte (non-shiny) finish on them and are made of a much more sturdy and well-cut cardboard (right). The counterfeit boxes are printed on cheap, high-gloss packaging and often feature blurry pictures as they're essentially photocopied versions of the real box.

At this time, all official STUD 100® stock in Canada is sold with a gold coloured cap. If you buy STUD 100® without this gold cap, it is most likely a counterfeit item or has been illegally smuggled into Canada.