California to force gym buffs to show ID to buy popular fitness supplement

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California will begin restricting the sale of muscle-building and weight-loss supplements to minors next year, including creatine supplements marketed for increasing strength and muscle mass.

Under the new law, retailers will have to request identification from customers whose age they cannot determine to be at least 18.

The restrictions take effect Jan. 1, 2027.

The change follows the passage of Assembly Bill 2030, introduced by Democratic Assemblymember Josh Lowenthal in February 2026. The legislation cleared both chambers of the California Legislature before Gov. Gavin Newsom signed it into law on Sept. 28.

The new requirement stands in contrast to California’s voting rules, which even generally allow people to cast ballots without presenting photo identification at the polls if they’re not a first-time voter.

The legislation was prompted by concerns over the health risks associated with weight-loss and muscle-building products, particularly among teenagers, according to CalMatters.

According to a legislative analysis, a 2024 study published in JAMA Network Open found that nearly one in 10 adolescents had used nonprescription weight-loss products that had not received medical approval. Researchers warned that using such products could increase the risk of developing eating disorders and experiencing unhealthy weight gain later in life.

Lawmakers also pointed to research indicating that muscle-building supplements, including protein powders and pills, can contain potentially harmful substances that are not disclosed on their labels.

Unlike prescription medications, dietary supplements generally do not require approval from the Food and Drug Administration for safety and effectiveness before reaching store shelves.

The measure comes after an earlier attempt to impose similar restrictions failed. Newsom vetoed Assembly Bill 1341 in 2022 but directed the California Department of Public Health to assemble a group of medical and academic experts to examine the issue.

The workgroup released its recommendations in February 2024, including proposals to restrict certain supplements to adults, keep the products out of minors’ reach and strengthen enforcement.

Under the new law, retailers are prohibited from selling, delivering or giving away covered supplements to anyone younger than 18 unless the minor has a prescription.

Businesses that violate the restrictions could face civil penalties of up to $500 per violation. State and local authorities can also seek court orders to stop violations.

The legislation has drawn opposition from the supplement industry.

The American Herbal Products Association argued that the restrictions could affect products that are otherwise legal and beneficial, while creating confusion over which supplements fall under the law.

The organization also warned that the requirements could increase costs for businesses that sell products online and deliver them to California customers.

Supporters, including the Strategic Training Initiative for the Prevention of Eating Disorders, maintained that the restrictions are necessary to protect teenagers from products marketed with promises of rapid weight loss or increased muscle mass despite insufficient safety testing.

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