A shocking finding has come to light in France, with nearly 260,000 condoms found to be unsafe for use. After determining that using them posed serious risks, authorities recalled all such condoms from the market. French investigative agencies have alerted the public that these condoms — sold through shops, pharmacies, and online — could seriously harm health. Lab tests found that some condoms tore easily and contained tiny perforations. In addition, authorities found that around 30 condom brands/lines sold online failed to meet any safety standards. Of these, an estimated 40,000 condoms had already reached customers.
France’s anti-fraud agency (DGCCRF), working alongside the country’s health authorities (DGS), jointly disclosed these findings. They stated that approximately 260,000 condoms had been recalled from shops and pharmacies, with the recalls carried out in two phases — one in late May and another in early August. Lab tests found serious defects in these products, with authorities warning that using them carried the risk of tearing or of problems arising through perforations. They advised anyone who had already used these condoms to get tested immediately for any infections, and to take a pregnancy test as well in case of a missed period.
The investigation also found that the condoms sold online lacked any valid safety certification, such as the EU’s CE conformity marking, and did not carry the mandatory information printed in French. Of these, roughly a thousand boxes — amounting to more than 40,000 condoms — had already been purchased by consumers, sold mostly by online distributors. Officials clarified that, so far, no complaints of harm had been received from anyone who had used these products.