Health guru ‘did not back up’ weight-loss claims
The regulatory body of the advertising industry upheld a complaint against the fitness therapist because he had not backed claims over a slimming product with substantial evidence.
The use of testimonials in selling a “weight loss pack” including supplements was not sufficient alone, it was found.
The authority was also critical of advertising that said supplements were available for arthritis, eczema and other health problems.
It noted that marketing should not offer any product or treatment for serious or prolonged ailments or for conditions requiring the attention of a registered medical or other qualified practitioner.
Tony Quinn’s representatives responded that testimonials featured on the slimming product were “genuine”. A separate statement on a product “did not refer to them offering products to prevent, cure or treat such conditions”, they added.
In its latest release, the authority upheld 15 complaints against advertisements found to be in breach of standards relating to truthfulness, prices, portrayal of persons, employment and children.
Another complaint related to ticket prices for the Top Gear Live Event in the RDS, Dublin, which were advertised as €49. A complaint the price was based on a family offer and the cheapest individual ticket was €70 was upheld. Advertisers behind the event with motoring expert Jeremy Clarkson said the advertisement was not meant to mislead and apologised.
Another ruling found against an advertisement for a Ford Fiesta car.
While the scrappage deal offered a new one for €11,700, there was a complaint the advertisement was misleading because the car featured in it was not related to the price stated in the offer.
Marketing for the stimulant drink Red Bull also contravened advertising rules. The final scene, where a young boy was in a gentlemen’s club, was found to be to be in conflict with the spirit of the code.
* www.asai.ie
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