The court heard Watling imported six barrels of Benzocaine from China, weighing a total of 23.6st (150kg).

BBC: Mark Watling

Abraham introduced his first diet product in the late 1950s--Slim-Mint gum, a benzocaine-based product that allegedly quelled hunger.

FORBES: Health

One businessman was imprisoned in late 2011 for supplying benzocaine to drug dealers.

ECONOMIST: Cocaine is cheaper, but weaker

At Mr Evans' workshop police found a further 18kg (40lbs) of Benzocaine.

BBC: George Evans jailed for drug dealing and money laundering

Just like the enthusiasts, the Serious Organised Crimes Agency is now trying to get rid of the cutting agents by cracking down on benzocaine imports.

ECONOMIST: Cocaine is cheaper, but weaker

Local dealers then cut it with other chemicals such as benzocaine, a local anaesthetic which simulates the numbing effect that real cocaine has on the gums.

ECONOMIST: Cocaine is cheaper, but weaker

Around two-fifths of samples contain benzocaine.

ECONOMIST: Cocaine is cheaper, but weaker