Kourtney Kardashian Barker’s supplement brand, Lemme, has faced significant backlash for its latest product offerings, particularly an “Ozempic-style” weight-loss supplement and an anti-cellulite pill. The Kar-Jenner sisters have long been associated with claims of using weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, a medicine originally for diabetes that gained popularity as a weight-loss aid in 2022 due to its active ingredient, a synthetic version of the GLP-1 hormone.

Last week, Lemme announced its new product, GLP-1 Daily, directly referencing the hormone mimicked by Ozempic. The brand markets it as designed to “reduce body weight, visceral fat, and hip and waist circumference.” While the Lemme pill does not contain the key ingredients found in Ozempic (semaglutide), it is positioned as a natural replacement for the injectable drug, aiming to naturally increase GLP-1 levels over time using lemon and saffron extracts. Kourtney herself promoted an article discussing her desire to be “in on the Ozempic boom,” and brand emails described it as “a GLP-1 solution without the side effects.”

However, this marketing strategy has drawn sharp criticism from fans and medical professionals alike. Many fans, noting Kourtney’s past advocacy for body positivity, accused her of exploiting insecurities and engaging in false marketing. Comments on social media highlighted the skepticism, with one user stating, “These do not mimic GLP-1 medications as nothing oral can mimic it for weight loss. It will systemically be engulfed by enzymes in a few minutes.”

Doctors and plastic surgeons are equally skeptical, labeling the product as an opportunistic “cash grab.” Naveen Cavale, a plastic surgeon, strongly condemned Lemme GLP-1 Daily, emphasizing that it lacks the scientifically proven impact of injectable medications like Ozempic. He warned that such products create “false hope” and could exacerbate mental health issues, frustration, and worsened body image among young women who feel societal pressure to conform to unrealistic beauty standards. He explained that Ozempic contains semaglutide, a rigorously tested GLP-1 receptor, which is absent in Lemme’s supplement. If it contained GLP-1, it would be classified as a drug, not a supplement, and there is little to no clinical evidence supporting significant weight loss from the plant-based extracts used.

Adding to the controversy, Lemme’s small print for GLP-1 Daily, much like its other products, includes a disclaimer: “This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease,” and states its claims have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA is crucial for ensuring the safety and efficacy of drugs and approved supplements.

Lemme also recently launched Lemme Smooth, a daily tablet claiming to “combat cellulite from the inside out” and reduce it in just 28 days using French Cantaloupe Melon extract. Cellulite is a very common, harmless skin condition, and medical experts, including Mr. Naveen Cavale, have dismissed these pills as a “fad” and an ineffective solution to a normal occurrence. He urged women to embrace a holistic approach, including a balanced diet, exercise, and a positive body image, rather than relying on unproven and costly remedies. Lemme Smooth also carries the same FDA disclaimer as GLP-1 Daily.

These are not the first controversies for Lemme. Upon their release in February last year, Lemme Purr, the brand’s “vagina gummies” marketed to boost vaginal health and alter its taste, were heavily criticized. Dr. Jen Gunter, a gynaecologist and author, publicly slammed Kourtney, stating, “Anyone who suggests that your vagina isn’t fresh or needs an improved taste is a misogynist and awful person. And yes, that includes you Kourtney Kardashian and your Lemme grift.”

Kourtney Kardashian, known as the most health-conscious sister in the family, launched Lemme in September 2022, citing her interest in wellness sparked by the birth of her eldest son, Mason. She aimed to create “science-backed” vitamins and botanical supplements. However, the recurring criticism from both the public and medical professionals regarding the scientific backing and ethical marketing of her products continues to challenge the brand’s credibility and impact, especially given the high price point of £69 for a one-time purchase of GLP-1 Daily pills.