French customs officers reported an alarming increase in illegal imports of “I love darling”, a product containing pharmaceutical ingredients such as Sildenafil And Tadalafil. Marketed as a natural aphrodisiac, this “erectile honey” contains active compounds found in prescription medications like Viagra And Cialis. Although presented as harmless, these unregulated products pose serious health risks.
Hidden dangers of unregulated aphrodisiacs
Laboratory tests carried out by France Joint laboratory service revealed the presence of Sildenafil and Tadalafil in the seized products. These ingredients, usually prescribed to treat erectile dysfunction, require precise dosage and medical supervision. Without regulation, the risks for consumers are significant.
An overdose of these substances can lead to erections, seizures, internal bleeding and kidney failure. Combined with medications like nitrates, often used by sufferers heart diseases, the effects can be fatal. Dr. Alain Ducardonnet, a Frenchman cardiologist, highlighted the dangers of these products, warning of serious side effects such as epileptic seizures and hemorrhages.
To compound the problem, packets of adulterated honey offer no information on dosage, contraindications, or potential risks. side effects. This lack of transparency leaves users, especially those with pre-existing health conditions, vulnerable to serious complications.
Growing demand among young men
Despite its dangers, this so-called “love honey” has found a growing audience, particularly among younger men. Influenced by the unrealistic expectations described in pornography and social networks, many people have turned to these products to improve their sexual performance. A police officer cited in Le Figaro noted that younger consumers are increasingly seeking out these products in an effort to emulate what they perceive as normal performance standards.
The product’s ease of access and discreet packaging have further fueled its popularity. Available via social networks On online sales platforms and illegal stores, honey is marketed as a safe and natural alternative to prescription drugs, which many consumers find attractive despite the lack of regulation.
Unprecedented seizures highlight growing problem
The scale of smuggling operations has increased significantly in recent years. In 2019, French customs reported only 18 cases of illegal imports. By 2023, this number had increased to 131, with record quantities of this product intercepted.
One of the largest seizures took place in Marseille in November 2023, when customs officers discovered more than 13 tons of adulterated honey, almost 860,000 sachets. Other major busts include a 2023 operation in Lyon and Clermont-Ferrand, where authorities confiscated 25,000 doses, the equivalent of 238 kilograms. Smaller but common seizures in the Paris region and the East of France also demonstrate the widespread nature of this illegal trade.
Honey comes mainly from Malaysia, Türkiye, Tunisia, and Thailand, arriving in France via sea freight or express delivery. Large quantities are hidden in shipping containers, while smaller quantities escape customs detection through packages ordered online.
Illegal sales and public misconceptions
Honey is often sold in small sachets of 15 to 30 grams, with prices ranging from €5 to €10 per unit or €50 for packs of ten. Sellers advertise on social media and offer delivery services, making the product easily available throughout France. Some sellers operate in illegal stores that also deal in counterfeit cigarettes and other contraband.
One of the most troubling aspects of this trend is the misconception surrounding the product. Marketed as an all-natural aphrodisiac, many consumers are unaware of its pharmaceutical contents. This lack of awareness increases the risk of misuse and serious health complications.
Global dimensions of the problem
If France is experiencing an increase in these imports, the problem is not isolated. Adulterated supplements like this honey are part of a larger global trend. Countries like Malaysia, Turkey and Thailand have become centers of production of these products due to limited regulatory oversight.
The growing international demand for these articles reflects broader societal challenges, including misinformation about “natural” remedies and a reluctance to seek medical advice for conditions such as erectile dysfunction. This facilitated the development of smuggling networks.
Take up the challenge
French authorities are intensifying their efforts to resolve this problem. Customs officials have stepped up inspections at ports and airports to intercept illegal shipments. Collaboration with international agencies is also a priority, aiming to disrupt smuggling networks at their source.
In addition to law enforcement, public education campaigns are being developed to warn consumers of the risks of unregulated supplements. Health professionals encourage individuals to seek medical consultations for erectile dysfunction treatments instead of turning to dangerous alternatives.
The rise to power “erectile honey” Consumption highlights a troubling intersection of societal pressures, misinformation and unregulated health products. A combination of stricter enforcement and public awareness will be key to solving this growing problem.
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