New York enforces age checks for weight loss and muscle supplements

A new law in New York State now requires companies selling weight loss or muscle building supplements to verify customers' ages. The rule took effect on 22 April and has already sparked legal challenges. Businesses must review their products to determine whether they fall under the new requirements. The legislation targets supplements containing ingredients like creatine, green tea extract, raspberry ketone, Garcinia cambogia, green coffee bean extract, or steroids. It also covers any FDA-approved substances for weight loss or muscle building. Companies must now check if their products include these components and adjust sales practices accordingly.

The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) sought to block the law with a preliminary injunction. However, the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of New York rejected the request, allowing the rule to proceed. Meanwhile, the Natural Products Association (NPA) has filed a separate lawsuit to challenge the legislation.

Businesses are advised to conduct thorough product reviews to confirm compliance. Those affected will need to implement age-verification systems for online and in-store purchases. The law is now in force, meaning companies must act quickly to avoid penalties. Those unsure about compliance should seek specialist legal advice. The outcome of ongoing lawsuits could still alter how the rule is enforced in the future.