EXHIBIT 23.1
 
               CONSENT OF ERNST & YOUNG LLP, INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
 
   
    We consent to the reference to our firm under the captions "Summary
Historical and Pro Forma Financial Data," "Selected Historical and Pro Forma
Financial Information" and "Experts" and to the use of our reports dated April
25, 1997 in Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement (Form S-4 No.
333-33121) and related Prospectus of Leiner Health Products Inc. for the
registration of $85,000,000 of its Senior Subordinated Notes due 2007.
    
 
                                                               ERNST & YOUNG LLP
 
   
Orange County, California
November 3, 1997