French customs officials have issued a warning against consuming 'aphrodisiac honey' that is illegally mixed with erectile dysfunction medications, following a significant increase in illegal imports.

The warning comes after record seizures of these products, with customs reporting a rise from just 18 cases in 2019 to 131 in 2023, culminating in a seizure of nearly 860,000 sticks from Malaysia in late 2024.

Laboratory tests have revealed that these honey products contain active ingredients like sildenafil and tadalafil, which are used to treat erectile dysfunction and require a prescription in France.

The popularity of 'aphrodisiac honey' has surged in recent years, prompting health officials to warn about the serious risks associated with unlisted harmful ingredients.

These products, marketed under names like Black Horse and Bio Max, are frequently sold illegally in nightlife venues, promoting various health benefits.

The adulterated honey products are primarily sourced from Malaysia, Turkey, Tunisia, and Thailand, often arriving in bulk or through clandestine online purchases.

Consumers are at risk due to the lack of dosage information and warnings on the packaging, leading to unknown dosages and potential side effects.

Health authorities have previously reported severe adverse effects linked to this honey, including convulsions and acute kidney injuries, with warnings dating back to 2021.

A cardiologist has cautioned that consuming this adulterated honey could lead to hypotension or heart attacks, emphasizing the need for medical oversight when using prescription medications like Viagra.

The appeal of these honey sticks lies in their festive promises regarding health and performance, making them attractive to consumers despite the risks.

Numerous websites offer aphrodisiac honey, claiming it to be a natural libido booster, with prices ranging from 7 to 10 euros for 15 to 30-gram sticks.

Erectile dysfunction, which is more prevalent in older men, is often linked to low testosterone levels and is commonly treated with prescription medications in France.