The National Consumer Service (Sernac) took legal action against four products sold in Chile that could be engaging in deceptive advertising practices by promoting supposed health benefits. These products have been promoted by their manufacturers as effective solutions for various conditions, but Sernac has questioned the veracity of their claims and has required companies to demonstrate the effectiveness of their products.
One of the products indicated is “Mundo Gumitas” by Le Nattier Group Spa. This item promises to contain vitamins and probiotics that would help improve rest and relieve digestive problems such as bloating and slow transit. However, Sernac has asked the company to demonstrate that the gummies actually meet the aforementioned properties. This case highlights the importance of companies supporting the claims they make about the health effects of their products with scientific evidence.
Other product in the spotlight is “Okrafit” from the company Nutrapharm SA, which is promoted as an aid to reduce the absorption of fats and calories. Sernac considers that these types of statements could lead the consumer to believe in guaranteed weight loss, which can be misleading if not supported by scientific evidence. For this reason, Nutrapharm has been required to provide evidence supporting the effectiveness of Okrafit, in order to prevent consumers from being led to purchase a product that does not deliver the promised results.
The third product questioned is the “Calming Gel” from Naay Chile, distributed by Importadora y Comercializadora Maitena Limitada. This gel claims to have properties to treat conditions such as varicose veins, arthritis and osteoarthritis, as well as to relieve the feeling of tired legs and joint pain. However, the Sernac has asked the company to prove the veracity of these claims, as medicinal properties often require rigorous verification before being advertised.
The fourth product Under investigation is Swiss Nature Labs Spa’s “Audiocalm,” touted as an ultimate tinnitus solution. According to Sernac, the company has stated that the product is scientifically proven to stop tinnitus in a few weeks, but has not been able to demonstrate said effectiveness. This type of advertising is considered misleading and could lead to sanctions for the company, since it creates unrealistic expectations in people who suffer from this chronic condition. Swiss Nature Labs risks significant fines for misleading advertising.
He Sernac has highlighted the importance of protecting consumers from products that may take advantage of their needs or health problems without offering verifiable results. The entity has requested that the companies involved in these cases provide evidence about the effectiveness of their products and, if they are unable to do so, they will be asked to suspend advertising immediately and disseminate corrective messages.
