New Zealand's Medicines and Medical Devices Safety Authority (Medsafe) has warned the public against consuming Valentus SlimROAST coffee, after independent laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the prescription-only drug methylhexanamine (DMAA) and phenethylamine. The warning follows earlier alerts from New Zealand Customs and the Ministry of Health.
Medsafe's own testing confirmed methylhexanamine and phenethylamine in samples of Valentus SlimROAST. The product, marketed for weight loss and management, claimed to improve mood, focus, regulate blood sugar, and boost circulation.
Each 3.5-gram sachet was found to contain approximately 140 milligrams of methylhexanamine (DMAA) and 70 milligrams of phenethylamine. Tubs of the coffee held about 105 to 140 milligrams of methylhexanamine (DMAA) and 17.5 to 21 milligrams of phenethylamine per 3.5-gram scoop. New Zealand law regulates DMAA as a prescription-only drug.
Methylhexanamine, also known as 1,3-dimethylamylamine, is an aliphatic amine with stimulant properties. It was initially developed as a nasal decongestant but later withdrawn from the market. In the early 2000s, it reappeared in dietary supplements, often touted for weight loss and athletic performance. Its chemical structure bears similarities to amphetamines. Phenethylamine is another stimulant, naturally occurring but dangerous in synthetic or concentrated forms, particularly when combined with other stimulants.
Consumers face risks of adverse reactions from DMAA, including agitation and other psychological effects, increased heart rate, elevated blood pressure, and various neurological issues. Despite these amphetamine-like characteristics and potential health dangers, Valentus does not disclose the presence of DMAA on its SlimROAST product labeling.
Medsafe has seized all SlimROAST stock it could locate within New Zealand. The regulator also issued a safety warning advising the public to avoid consuming the product.
This New Zealand warning follows a similar alert issued in Denmark two months prior regarding Valentus SlimROAST. Valentus is an American company, based in North Dakota and run by Dave Jordan.
DMAA is illegal in the United States. It remains unclear whether Valentus distributes the same DMAA-containing SlimROAST to American consumers. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) later issued a warning to Valentus's SlimROAST manufacturer regarding DMHA, another stimulant, underscoring ongoing concerns about undisclosed ingredients in their products.
Consumers who have purchased Valentus SlimROAST Optimum Dark Roast Coffee should return it to the point of sale or dispose of it safely. If you have consumed this product and feel unwell, seek immediate medical advice and inform your healthcare professional that you consumed a product containing methylhexanamine and phenethylamine.