CALIFORNIA IN BRIEF : SACRAMENTO : Warning Issued About Diet Product

State Health Director Kenneth W. Kizer warned consumers not to consume tablets or capsules of Cal-Ban 3000, a weight-loss product that may result in obstructions in the esophagus, stomach and intestines. Retailers are also warned not to sell the product. Cal-Ban’s main ingredient is guar gum, a plant derivative that swells when it becomes wet. Guar gum is safely used in small amounts to thicken some foods. The Food and Drug Administration has reported 20 cases and the Florida Department of Health and Rehabilitative Services has reported 100 cases of adverse reaction to Cal-Ban 3000, a product promoted by a Florida company.