Consumers are being warned to steer clear of imported “slimming” coffee, tea and chocolate containing an ingredient said to increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Authorities are worried that a rush to shape up for summer could lead to people falling for the products, which contain the banned substance sibutramine.
The prescription medicine has been found in clinical trials to increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes among overweight users and was banned from sale.
The NSW Food Authority has seized 15,000 units of “slimming” foods in recent months, many of which were imported from China.
The foods are being investigated to ensure they comply with safety standards.
“Everyone is full of good intentions as the year begins but generally if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is,” Primary Industries Minister Steve Whan said.
AAP