New York enforces age checks for weight loss and muscle supplements

A new law in New York State now demands age checks for sales of weight loss and muscle-building supplements. The rule took effect on 22 April, making New York the second state after California to impose such restrictions. Businesses must now verify customers' ages before selling these products to minors. The legislation follows California's 2023 law, which also required age verification for similar supplements marketed to under-18s. So far, no other U.S. states have introduced comparable measures.

Companies must review their product lines to identify which items fall under the new requirements. Ingredients under scrutiny include creatine, green tea extract, raspberry ketone, garcinia cambogia, green coffee bean extract, steroids, and FDA-approved substances for weight loss or muscle gain. Legal challenges have already emerged. The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) sought a preliminary injunction to block the law, but the U.S. District Court of the Southern District of New York rejected the request. Meanwhile, the Natural Products Association (NPA) has filed a separate lawsuit contesting the legislation.

The law is now in force, requiring businesses to implement age-verification systems. Those affected must determine whether their products meet the criteria for restriction. Failure to comply could result in legal consequences as the state enforces the new rules.