The Kar-Jenner sisters have long faced claims regarding their use of Ozempic, a drug originally developed for diabetes that gained significant attention as a weight-loss aid in 2022. Kim Kardashian, Khloe, and Kylie have all been linked to its use by fans. Now, Kourtney Kardashian Barker, often regarded as the most health-conscious sister, has been accused of capitalizing on this weight-loss phenomenon with her £2.4 billion supplement brand, Lemme, which she launched in September 2022.

Last week, Lemme introduced its latest product, GLP-1 Daily, an “Ozempic-style” weight-loss supplement. Ozempic, administered as a weekly injection, contains a synthetic version of the GLP-1 hormone, which naturally regulates digestion and hunger. Lemme’s GLP-1 Daily directly references this hormone, claiming to “reduce body weight, visceral fat, and hip and waist circumference.” While the pill does not contain the key ingredients found in Ozempic, it is marketed as a natural alternative designed to naturally increase GLP-1 levels over time using lemon and saffron extracts. Kourtney herself promoted a WWD article in September that discussed her desire to be “in on the Ozempic boom,” and brand emails described it as “a GLP-1 solution without the side effects” associated with the injectable drug.

However, the GLP-1 Daily supplement has been met with widespread criticism from both fans and medical experts. Many fans, noting Kourtney’s previous outspoken stance on body positivity, expressed disappointment, calling the product a “facade” and “false marketing.” They questioned Kourtney’s motives, accusing her of openly making money off insecurities. Furthermore, medical professionals are highly skeptical of the product’s claims. One fan highlighted, “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.” The supplement is priced at an eye-watering £69 for a one-time purchase of 30 servings, with a monthly subscription costing £55.23.

Plastic surgeon Naveen Cavale, from Real Plastic Surgery, explicitly slammed Kourtney for “cashing in” on young women struggling with body image, calling the product “incredibly misleading.” Cavale stated that while the supplement may be marketed as a natural alternative, “it doesn’t offer the same scientifically proven impact as injectable medications like Ozempic.” He warned that such products create false hope and offer little in terms of real results, emphasizing that Ozempic contains semaglutide, a rigorously tested GLP-1 receptor, which Lemme’s product lacks. He added that if it did contain GLP-1, it would be classified as a drug, not a supplement, and there is little to no clinical evidence to support significant weight loss from its plant-based ingredients. Cavale expressed concern that repeatedly using ineffective products could lead to frustration, feelings of failure, worsened body image issues, and intensify anxiety, stress, and even depression among consumers.

This is not the first time Kourtney’s Lemme brand has faced scrutiny. Earlier this year, in June, she launched “Lemme Smooth” capsules, marketed to reduce cellulite in just 28 days. These capsules claimed to use clinically-studied ingredients like French Cantaloupe Melon (SOD B Dimpless), an antioxidant. Mr. Naveen Cavale also criticized this product, calling it “a fad” and an “ineffective solution to a perfectly normal condition.” He underscored that cellulite is a common and natural occurrence for most women due to fat cells and connective cords, and these pills lack scientific backing for significant, long-lasting results. He advised a holistic approach—balanced diet, regular exercise, and positive body image—instead of unproven, costly remedies.

Another controversial product, “Lemme Purr” vagina gummies, launched in February last year, aimed to boost vaginal health and “alter its taste” using pineapple, Vitamin C, and probiotics. This product drew strong condemnation from Dr. Jen Gunter, a gynecologist and author of 'The Vagina Bible'. Dr. Gunter publicly stated, “Anyone who suggests that your vagina isn't fresh or needs an improved taste is a misogynist and awful person,” directly including Kourtney Kardashian and labeling the product a “grift.” She also disputed the belief that consuming pineapple affects the taste of bodily fluids.

A consistent issue across all these Lemme products is the lack of independent scientific validation. Lemme’s small print disclaims that its claims have “not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA)” and that the product is “not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.” This is significant, as the FDA is responsible for ensuring the safety and efficacy of drugs, vitamins, supplements, and medical devices in the US, providing consumers assurance through rigorous testing. Kourtney herself has stated her mission was to collaborate with doctors and scientists to create “science-backed” vitamins and botanical supplements, yet her brand frequently faces accusations of exploiting insecurities and lacking the scientific rigor it claims.