FTC Lawsuit Strikes Blow Against Acai Berry Scams
The acai berry is a fruit native to the amazon forest in Brazil, that grows on the unique acai palm. It comes in different shapes and colors, but the one commonly referred to is a purple fruit, rich in taste and color, the size of a grape. The acai berry has long been a very popular staple of diet in Brazil, particularly among native Indians, because of its very high nutritional value.
A research project found that the acai berry made up almost 40% of the entire diet of some native amazon tribes. 10% of the grape is edible, consisting of the pulp and skin. The rest is seeds and is not usually eaten. The fruit is often used in smoothies and as a standalone dish in Brazil. Recently the rest of the world has become aware of the many healthy benefits of acai berry such as weight-loss, improved immune system and increased energy.
FTC strikes new blow in battle against Acai Berry Scams
The following news release was posted on the FTC website yesterday. It’s a much anticipated and necessary blow (although very late) in the battle against the plethora of Acai Berry Scams that have been preying on desperate consumers for nearly 2 years now.
The headline does sounds promising, but if you read the news release, you see they are announcing a lawsuit against a SINGLE COMPANY! There are dozens of companies participating in these scams. We do hope the message being sent will scare some others out of the business, but if prior such actions are any indication, we doubt it. Check back next week and we’ll have an update on the repercussions.
FTC to Announce Action Against Internet Marketers of Acai Berry Weight-Loss Pills and “Colon Cleansers”
Millions of consumers who are anxious to lose weight or prevent cancer have seen the ads: “…USE WITH CAUTION! Major weight loss in short periods of time may occur,” or “detoxify your organs,” and break down and remove “toxic waste matter which may have been stuck in the folds and wrinkles of your digestive system for years and years.” Come and learn from the victims themselves what the “free” trials of these products have cost, and how the Federal Trade Commission and the business community are taking action.
WHAT:
The Federal Trade Commission will hold a press conference on Monday, August 16, 2010, at 10 a.m., to announce a lawsuit against a company that marketed acai berry weight-loss supplements and “colon cleansing” supplements by promising consumers “free” trials of the products.
WHO:
David C. Vladeck, Director, FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection Martin Elliott, Senior Business Leader, Payment System Risk, Visa Inc. Two consumers who lost money on “free” trial offers promised by this company.
WHEN:
Monday, August 16, 2010, 10 a.m. (The room will be open 30 minutes early for media set up.)
WHERE:
Federal Trade Commission, Midwest Region
55 West Monroe Street, Suite 1825
Chicago, Illinois
Call-in Information:
The toll-free phone number in the U.S. and Canada is (866) 363-9013, the confirmation number is 94253184, and the chairperson is Gail Kingsland. The lines, which are for media only, will open at 9:45 a.m. CST. Please reference the confirmation number when joining the call.
PRESS CONTACT:
FTC Office of Public Affairs
202-326-2180