A new state law will prohibit minors from purchasing diet pills or muscle-building and weight loss supplements as of Monday. The goal of this legislation is to prevent eating disorders, and it includes exemptions for some protein powders, protein drinks, and foods. Assemblymember Nily Rozic, one of the bill’s sponsors, stated that the law aims to combat diet culture and ensure the safety of young consumers. Governor Kathy Hochul signed the act into law in October, signaling the importance placed on protecting minors from the potential dangers associated with these supplements.
Violations of the law may result in civil penalties of up to $500, and Attorney General Letitia James has the authority to request a warning in court if a violation is believed to have occurred. Industry groups attempted to prevent enforcement of the law, but a federal judge denied an initial motion for a preliminary injunction. The Council for Responsible Nutrition, a trade group representing dietary supplement manufacturers and distributors, expressed concerns about the bill’s ambiguity, its focus on marketing rather than consumption, and the lack of clear compliance guidelines. The trade group argued that there is no proven causal link between dietary supplements and eating disorders.
The Council for Responsible Nutrition has criticized the law as being based on unscientific and meritless claims that dietary supplements cause eating disorders in young people. The group expressed concern that the law would prevent families from accessing trusted nutrition products that they use to keep themselves healthy. Rozic and fellow bill sponsor Senator Shelley Mayer clarified that the legislation aims to address marketing and advertising to minors by establishing age verification guidelines for retailers and delivery sellers. Another federal court has stayed proceedings in a separate lawsuit filed by the Natural Products Association, a nonprofit representing manufacturers and retailers of natural products, pending the outcome of the Council for Responsible Nutrition’s case.
Despite the challenges from industry groups, the new law will go into effect as planned, preventing minors from purchasing certain supplements intended for muscle building or weight loss. The focus on protecting young consumers from potential harm associated with these products is a key motivation behind the legislation. While the law has faced legal challenges, including claims that it lacks clarity and scientific basis, it has garnered support from advocates who believe it is an essential measure in combating harmful diet culture and promoting the well-being of minors. As enforcement of the law begins, retailers and manufacturers will need to ensure compliance to avoid penalties and maintain the safety and health of their customers, particularly young individuals who may be vulnerable to the negative effects of certain supplements.
