A new law in New York makes it illegal to sell weight-loss and muscle-building supplements to minors, citing concerns about unapproved ingredients like steroids and heavy metals that can put kids at risk. The lack of regulation from the FDA in overseeing dietary supplements has led state lawmakers in Massachusetts, California, and Colorado to consider similar measures. The law in New York allows the state to fine businesses that sell these products to minors, with some exemptions for certain protein supplements and shakes.
While the specific products are not banned under the law, judges enforcing the measure are advised to consider the inclusion of ingredients such as creatine, green tea extract, and raspberry ketone. Studies have found that some supplements can be tainted with anabolic steroids and banned stimulants, making them particularly harmful for children who are still growing. Some businesses, like Natural Body Astoria in Queens, are already taking precautions to comply with the new law, with workers saying they are more aware of what products can be sold to children.
Despite support from organizations like the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the new regulation has faced pushback from the industry, with retailers like The Vitamin Shoppe struggling to implement the rules due to unclear definitions. Two lawsuits challenging the law have been filed, arguing that regulation of dietary supplements is the responsibility of the FDA. However, a federal judge in Manhattan denied a motion to stop the law from taking effect, emphasizing the state’s goal of protecting youth from harmful supplements.
The FDA did not respond to requests for comment on the new law, while State Sen. Shelley Mayer, who sponsored the legislation, believes implementation should not be difficult for businesses. Online retailers like Amazon may face challenges in ensuring compliance with the law, as it is unclear how they will prevent the sale of prohibited supplements to minors in New York. Some products on The Vitamin Shoppe’s online store now require buyers in New York to present ID upon delivery.
While some young adults like 18-year-old Maxim Abramciuc understand the need for restrictions on these products, they may not fully agree with the new law. Abramciuc believes children should be able to buy certain supplements with minimal side effects. Overall, the new law in New York is the first of its kind in the nation and aims to protect minors from potential dangers associated with unregulated dietary supplements.
