Alamogordo, NM – December 18, 2025
New Mexico is taking action against the herbal supplement kratom. The New Mexico Environment Department (NMED) has banned kratom from food and drinks sold in establishments under state permits. This decision aligns with guidance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), labeling kratom as an unapproved food ingredient.
All permitted food businesses, like restaurants and gas stations, must stop using kratom right away. This includes products such as drinks and edibles. Any remaining kratom products must be discarded. Businesses that ignore this ban could face serious penalties, including legal action.
Kratom comes from a tree in Southeast Asia and is commonly found in forms like powders, capsules, and liquids. It’s often marketed for pain relief or as a way to improve mood, but health officials warn it poses significant risks.
“Protecting the health and safety of New Mexicans is our top priority,” said Marci Nevarez, Chief of the NMED Environmental Health Bureau. “The use of unapproved substances in food puts consumers at risk, and today’s announcement reinforces our commitment to science-based food safety standards.”
This ban highlights ongoing concerns about kratom’s safety. Recently, New Mexico Attorney General Raúl Torrez cautioned about the substance’s opioid-like effects and potential for addiction. Despite concerns, kratom products remain widely available in smoke shops and online.
In Alamogordo and Otero County, local retailers have been selling kratom-infused items. The new ban specifically targets drinks and edibles, which have gained popularity at convenience stores. However, kratom in non-food forms may still be sold in places outside state permits.
Health experts emphasize that unregulated kratom may not be safe. Potential side effects include nausea, liver damage, and even overdose in rare cases. The New Mexico Department of Health advises keeping naloxone on hand for emergencies related to opioids and contacting Poison Control at (800) 222-1222 for concerns about kratom exposure.
Residents in southern New Mexico, including Alamogordo, are encouraged to share their kratom experiences with the New Mexico Department of Justice through an online submission form at NMDOJ.gov/kratom.
For more information on the FDA’s stance on kratom, visit their resource page. Questions about the new food guidelines can be sent to NMED’s Food Program at food.program@env.nm.gov.
