Theacai berry is a well known tree from Central South America. It has become popular for its various uses, from its fruit to the stem and leaves of the whole tree. The locals then discovered the fruit’s potential to become a very good juice. Later on, they discovered that it has many health benefits so they have utilized the fruit to relieve certain health problems.
Because of its proven health benefits, the Acai berry is developed into a variety of products. The type of the product is usually based on the uses of the fruit or the benefits that are intended to be utilized.
Particularly, this fruit is known to provide many health benefits, including reduction of cholesterol levels, production of antioxidants, and improvement of digestion among others. For these health benefits, juice concentrate and juice mixes are being offered. But because certain industries are being revolutionized, such as weight loss products, Acai berry pills are also developed and marketed today.
ftc-announces-lawsuit-against-online-acai-berry-marketers
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