Pol Aims to Ban ‘Flat Tummy' Tea, Lollipop Sales to Minors | NBC New York

New York City councilman Mark Levine has introduced legislation that would ban the sale of “detox teas” and “flat-tummy” lollipops to anyone under the age of 18. Advertisements for detox teas, or “skinny teas,” promise they will guarantee near-effortless weightloss and flat stomachs. Though the products are extremely popular and endorsed by social media influencers and celebrities alike, awareness about the tea’s harmful effects is growing. Levine, who is also the City Council’s health chair, is particularly concerned about detox teas being marketed to young people because they give the impression that “the repeated intake of laxatives is part of a healthy lifestyle,” he said. Young girls in particular are especially at risk of body-image issues and eating disorders.