The European Anti-Fraud Office (OLAF) has intercepted more than 200,000 counterfeit condoms being distributed across Europe. The fake products were sold under the name and logo of a well-known brand, which has not been disclosed. Authorities estimate the street value of the haul at over £170,505.
Why counterfeit condoms are dangerous
OLAF Director-General Petr Klement stated: 'Counterfeit condoms are dangerous. They’re untested, uncontrolled and unsafe. They can allow for the spread of sexually transmitted infections.' Unlike genuine condoms, counterfeits do not meet EU quality requirements for microbial contamination controls, biocompatibility, leak-testing, dimensional requirements, shelf-life, and stability testing. This increases the risk of leaks or tearing, leading to STIs such as chlamydia or gonorrhoea, as well as unwanted pregnancy.
Previous incidents and ongoing risks
This is not a new issue. In 2016, about 22,000 counterfeit condoms were seized in Castleford, West Yorkshire, alongside 7,000 non-compliant syphilis test strips. At the time, Danny Lee-Frost of the MHRA warned that using such condoms would be 'playing Russian roulette' with your health.
How genuine condoms are made
According to Durex, the production process is complex. Chemicals are added to latex to give stability and strength, then heated (prevulcanised) to react with the rubber. The latex is stored in temperature-controlled tanks, and clean glass formers are dipped into the latex to coat them. After rotating for even spread and drying, a second dip occurs. The formers are then oven-heated to complete chemical reactions, ensuring strength and elasticity. Condoms are then removed from moulds, washed, powdered, stored for two days, and checked for imperfections. Durex conducts extra tests: water leak testing on over 2 million condoms per month (filled with water and suspended for a minute) and air inflation testing on about 500,000 condoms per month (checking burst-strength and elasticity; international latex standard is 18 litres, Durex minimum is 22 litres, typically expanding to 40 litres). If any fail, the entire batch—up to 432,000 condoms—is discarded.
How to identify genuine condoms
Consumers can check for a European CE mark or UKCA mark on the packet, indicating it has been tested to high safety standards. Alternatively, free condoms from local health services are guaranteed safe. OLAF advises vigilance and not letting this deter from using protection.
