France has ordered the recall of 15 types of ultra-thin condoms distributed across the European Union after investigations uncovered manufacturing defects that could cause the products to tear or burst during use. The defects raise concerns about protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unintended pregnancies.
The affected condoms were manufactured by Malaysian company Richter Rubber Technology. France’s Directorate-General for Competition Policy, Consumer Affairs and Fraud Control (DGCCRF), the country’s consumer protection watchdog, announced the findings after laboratory tests identified problems with the quality and thickness of the latex used in production.
According to French authorities, the tests found that some condoms did not meet the required safety standards. The products failed pressure and burst-volume tests, as well as tests designed to detect holes or perforations in the latex. Investigators also raised concerns about the manufacturer’s ability to maintain proper control over its production process.
The seriousness of the findings was reinforced by reports from consumers. In a ministerial order dated 22 October and published in France’s Official Journal on 30 October, authorities said some users had reported condom breakages and unintended pregnancies linked to the affected batches.
The recalled products account for approximately seven million condoms distributed across the European Union, although only a proportion of that quantity was sold in France, according to the French economy ministry.
In response, the French government has suspended the sale and import of ultra-thin condoms manufactured by Richter Rubber Technology using the defective production process. The suspension will remain in place for one year and can be renewed if necessary.
The latest action follows an earlier investigation that led to recalls of approximately 260,000 non-compliant condoms in late May and early August 2026. Since those initial recalls, eight users have reported incidents involving condom breakages.
The recall affects consumers in several European countries because the condoms were distributed through different markets under multiple brand names. French authorities have published a list of the affected products and production batches, asking retailers to remove them from sale and consumers to stop using any products covered by the recall.
People who have purchased the affected condoms are advised to check the official list before using them again. Anyone who has used a product from the recalled batches has been advised to seek screening for sexually transmitted infections at a medical laboratory. Those concerned about a possible pregnancy should also take a pregnancy test if their period is late.
Consumers who believe they may have been affected can contact their doctor or visit a free sexual health screening centre for advice and testing. French authorities have also encouraged people to report problems experienced during use, including breakages and holes, through the government’s health incident reporting platform.
The DGCCRF said it would continue monitoring the withdrawal and recall to ensure the affected products are removed from the market. The investigation also highlights the importance of manufacturing quality controls and independent testing in ensuring that condoms meet the safety standards expected of products used to prevent infections and unintended pregnancies.
