France introduces a temporary one-year ban on the use of Garcinia cambogia in food supplements

France introduced an Order of April 15, 2025 suspending the importation, introduction and placing on the market, free of charge or for payment, in France of food supplements containing the plant Garcinia cambogia Desr. and all preparations derived from parts of this plant. The suspension is binding in France from April 17, 2025 for a period of one year. Furthermore, food supplements containing this plant must be withdrawn from all points of sale in France and recalled from consumers who purchased them. In addition, companies responsible for their initial marketing are required to issue warnings informing consumers of the dangerous nature of these products and urging them not to use them.

The ban was introduced due to the acute health risks associated with the consumption of food supplements containing Garcinia cambogia Desr. In its Recommendations of March 2025 ANSES (the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety) identified severe adverse effects, including cases of acute hepatitis, even in individuals with no prior medical history, mental disorders, heart problems and muscle damage. ANSES strongly advised against the use of food supplements containing this plant.

Additionally, the ban is a precautionary measure pending the EFSA’s ongoing assessment of hydroxycitric acid (HCA) intake, a compound found in Garcinia cambogia’s fruit, responsible for its weight-loss properties. The EFSA assessment could potentially lead to EU-wide restrictions or even bans on this substance and herbal preparations containing it, including Garcinia cambogia.

What are the implications for the companies?

Garcinia cambogia Desr. is a prohibited plant in food supplements in France until April 17, 2026. Companies involved in the import, sale, or marketing of food supplements containing Garcinia cambogia Desr. in France must:

• Withdraw these products from all points of sale in France;
• Recall all products already distributed to consumers; and
• Issue warnings informing consumers of the dangerous nature of these products and urging them not to use them.