New York Dietary Supplement Age Restriction Law: FAQs

New York Dietary Supplement Age Restriction Law: FAQs

In accordance with New York General Business Law Section 391-oo, the state of New York prohibits the sale of specific weight loss and muscle-building dietary supplements to consumers under the age of 18.

This law applies to both physical retail stores within New York and online retailers shipping to New York consumers. Because of this, PEScience may verify a customer’s age at checkout, and will utilize shipping methods that require an adult signature upon delivery.

Please review the FAQs below for more details on how this affects your upcoming orders.

Which products are subject to this New York law?

The law targets dietary supplements marketed or intended for muscle building or weight loss, as well as over-the-counter diet pills. It does not apply to conventional foods or products labeled with a standard Nutrition Facts panel.

Can I still purchase PEScience products online if I live in New York?

Yes. You can still order your favorite products directly from our site. However, if any item in your cart falls under the New York age-restricted category, you will be prompted to verify that you are at least 18 years old before completing checkout. Additionally, these orders require special shipping handling.

Why has my shipping cost increased?

The state of New York requires online retailers to use a delivery method that mandates an adult (with valid proof of age) sign for the package.

  • Shipping carriers charge an extra fee for this Adult Signature Required service.

  • This cost is passed directly from our shipping partners and is added to our standard shipping rates at checkout.

Will I still have to pay this extra shipping fee if I qualify for Free Shipping?

Yes. Our standard free shipping thresholds only cover basic transportation costs. They do not cover the mandatory, carrier-enforced fees required for legal age verification upon delivery.

Why does the delivery courier require me to be 21+ if the law says 18?

While New York law sets the purchase age at 18, major shipping carriers (like UPS, FedEx, and DHL) only offer "Adult Signature" services for individuals 21 years of age or older. Because we must use these carrier services to legally ship your package, the person signing for the delivery must be at least 21 years old and present a valid government-issued ID.

What kind of ID do I need to show at delivery?

The delivery carrier will accept any valid, government-issued photo ID that clearly shows a birthdate, including:

  • A state driver’s license or non-driver ID card

  • A passport

  • A military ID

What happens if I am not home when the mail carrier attempts delivery?

Because a signature is strictly required, the carrier cannot leave the package at your door or in a mailbox.

  • Depending on the carrier, they will usually make a second delivery attempt or hold the package at a local pickup facility.

  • We recommend tracking your package closely and coordinating directly with the shipping carrier if you need to arrange a specific pickup time.

Still Have Questions? Here is Who to Contact:

Regarding your PEScience order or our store policy:

If you have questions about how this policy affects your specific shopping experience on our website, please reach out directly to our team at customerservice@pescience.com.

Regarding the law itself:

  • State Attorney General’s Office: The New York Attorney General’s office enforces this regulation. For legal inquiries, visit the New York Attorney General Contact Page.

  • Local Consumer Protection Office: Your local county or city consumer protection office can offer guidance on your rights as a consumer under this new law.

  • Healthcare Providers: If you have health- or safety-related questions about dietary supplements, we recommend consulting a qualified healthcare professional.

To voice feedback or complaints about this legislation:

Because this is a state mandate, PEScience has no control over these shipping restrictions or added fees. If you wish to express dissatisfaction with the law, you can contact your state representatives: