Exposing the Bitter Truth: China's 'Slimming Coffee' Scandal
Recently, China's state-run television network, CCTV, exposed the truth behind so-called "slimming coffee" products, revealing that some coffee products containing Sibutramine, a harmful substance, were being sold on e-commerce platforms. This has sparked widespread public concern and discussion. In a crackdown on the illicit production and sale of these hazardous food products, the police in Lanzhou, Gansu Province, seized over 130,000 bags of "slimming coffee" and arrested 33 individuals. Meanwhile, 22 online stores selling the toxic coffee products were shut down.

24 March 2025
A local resident, Mr. Duan, had been consuming this "slimming coffee" for an extended period, experiencing symptoms such as palpitations and vomiting. According to medical professionals, Sibutramine is a central nervous system inhibitor that was banned in 2010 due to its severe side effects, including oral dryness, bad breath, bloody bruises, insomnia, and loss of appetite. Prolonged consumption of Sibutramine can lead to serious health issues, including stroke and cardiovascular disease, and even death.
The police investigation revealed that the perpetrators used advanced methods to package and sell the toxic coffee products, including the use of plastic sealing machines and fake anti-counterfeiting labels. They also employed evasion tactics, such as labeling the products as "toys" to avoid detection, and used social media platforms to communicate with their network of agents. The case has been taken over by the Gansu Provincial Public Security Department, and further investigations and arrests are underway.
As the news of the "slimming coffee" scandal spread, the public's reaction has been intense, with many people expressing the need to be cautious of such consumer traps. They emphasize that a healthy diet and exercise are the most effective ways to lose weight, rather than relying on purported "slimming" products. Many have taken to social media and online forums to share their own experiences with such products, warning others about the dangers of quick fixes and the importance of adopting sustainable, healthy lifestyles.
The incident has sparked a renewed conversation about the need for a more balanced and informed approach to health and beauty, one that prioritizes evidence-based practices over fleeting promises of rapid weight loss. There is a growing demand for trustworthy, evidence-based solutions that prioritize well-being over profit. The public is calling for stricter regulation of the health supplement industry and greater awareness about the potential risks of unverified weight loss products.
This incident has also raised questions about the effectiveness of coffee in aiding weight loss. While some research suggests that caffeine can increase metabolism, leading to weight loss, the impact of caffeine on metabolism is minimal, and its effects on weight loss are still uncertain. Another theory proposes that coffee can promote the function of brown fat, leading to weight loss, but the evidence is limited, and more research is needed to confirm its validity in humans.
Ultimately, the case of the "slimming coffee" serves as a warning to consumers to be aware of the risks associated with unregulated weight loss products and to prioritize their health and well-being above all else. By promoting a culture of healthy living and skepticism towards unproven claims, we can work towards creating a safer and more informed society. A sustainable weight loss plan should prioritize nutrition and lifestyle changes over quick fixes or magic solutions, and individuals should focus on adopting healthy habits, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, rather than resorting to unproven and potentially harmful methods.
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