The French government has taken decisive action to safeguard public health by suspending the sale and import of food supplements containing Garcinia cambogia, a plant known for its weight loss properties. This suspension follows alarming reports of serious health issues linked to these products, including a fatal case of fulminant hepatitis.
On April 17, 2025, French authorities issued an order that went into effect the very next day, banning these supplements from pharmacies and other retail outlets. The decision was prompted by the findings of the National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (Anses), which had previously recommended against the consumption of Garcinia cambogia products due to the severe side effects associated with their use.
According to Anses, there have been 38 reports of adverse effects in France between 2009 and March 2024, including liver damage, psychiatric disorders, digestive issues such as pancreatitis, and even cardiac conditions. These effects have been observed in both individuals with pre-existing health conditions and those who were previously healthy. The agency's assessment highlighted the acute risk posed by these supplements, leading to the immediate removal and recall of all products containing Garcinia cambogia.
"The consumption of these products can lead to severe adverse effects, particularly acute hepatitis, even in individuals with no prior medical history," Anses stated in its findings. The agency is currently conducting further evaluations to analyze the risks associated with hydroxycitric acid (HCA), the active ingredient in Garcinia cambogia, which is believed to be responsible for these harmful effects.
Despite being banned in medicinal products since 2012, Garcinia cambogia has continued to be marketed in dietary supplements, with approximately 340 products available, primarily through online platforms. The French government has now informed the European Commission of Anses' conclusions and the urgent need for coordinated European measures regarding these supplements.
In a joint statement, Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard and Economy Minister Eric Lombard emphasized the government's commitment to consumer protection. They announced that the introduction, import, and marketing of Garcinia cambogia supplements would be suspended, effective immediately. This order prohibits the sale of any existing stocks, ensuring that no products remain on the market.
The ministers also indicated that inspection services would be deployed to verify compliance with these measures, ensuring that all food sector operators promptly recall any Garcinia cambogia-based supplements they have on the market. This proactive approach aims to prevent further health risks while waiting for a comprehensive risk assessment from the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), which is currently reviewing the health claims made by manufacturers of these supplements.
Although the EFSA is examining the health claims associated with Garcinia cambogia, including its purported benefits for weight control and fat reduction, the French government has opted to act independently, citing the precautionary principle. The ministers noted that no dietary supplement is without risk, particularly those marketed for rapid weight loss.
"We urge consumers to consult healthcare professionals before taking any weight loss products, as no plant can replace a balanced diet and regular physical activity for achieving weight loss goals," they cautioned.
This decisive action by the French government underscores the growing concern over the safety of dietary supplements and the need for stricter regulations to protect consumers. As the EFSA continues its assessment, the French authorities are setting a precedent for how national governments can respond to emerging health risks associated with dietary supplements.
In the wake of this ban, consumers are advised to remain vigilant and informed about the potential risks associated with dietary supplements, especially those claiming to aid in weight loss. The recent developments serve as a reminder of the importance of regulatory oversight in the food supplement industry and the necessity of ongoing research to ensure public safety.
