Holland & Barrett has been accused of “insulting” women by selling chocolate bars covered with “menopause almonds”.
The health food chain claims the £3.79 dark chocolate snack soothes menopause symptoms and “contributes to the regulation of hormonal activity”, according to The Daily Mail.
Instructions on the packaging state that the 75g bar contains vitamin B6, which is naturally present in almonds.
Kate Muir, a menopause campaigner, branded the confectionery a “ridiculous money-making product”.
Speaking to the newspaper, she said: “I feel very strongly that this is exploiting a vulnerable group of women.
“Hopefully [women] won’t be distracted by ridiculous money-making products like this.”
Ms Muir stressed that hormone deficiency was a “very serious” problem.
“There is a peak in suicide among women in perimenopause,” she said. “Women need to know they can go to the NHS and get proper help, rather than relying on chocolate bars.”
Holland & Barrett, the UK’s largest health food chain, states on its website that the bars contain a tiny amount of saffron extract, branded as “affron”.
Yet, according to the Daily Mail, this was tested in one small 2021 trial, which was sponsored by its makers, and no effect on physical menopause symptoms was identified.
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
