California Bans Muscle Supplements for Under-18s

Effective January 1, 2027, California will prohibit the sale of specific over-the-counter diet pills and muscle-building supplements to individuals under 18 years of age. Governor Gavin Newsom signed the legislation, citing concerns that unprescribed products can lead to dangerous side effects, mislabeling, or contamination with substances like steroids. The law specifically targets supplements marketed for weight loss or muscle gain, with potential consideration given to products containing ingredients such as creatine or green tea extract, depending on their labeling and marketing. This measure comes in response to research indicating that nearly one in ten adolescents use such products, and studies linking their use to an increased likelihood of eating disorder diagnoses.

Sellers who violate this new law face civil fines of up to $500 for each infraction. While some industry groups, like the American Herbal Products Association, have opposed the legislation citing a lack of scientific justification and unclear scope, others, such as the Center for Science in the Public Interest, have publicly supported the measure, noting that manufacturers often target young people with unsubstantiated claims. Medical professionals also express concerns, recommending that adolescents prioritize nutrition, training, sleep, and hydration over supplements due to potential negative side effects and the risk of undetected harmful substances.