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0 pointsfludlight6y ago0 comments

How often do these things get beyond the first step? Large companies can make unsubstantiated claims with relative impunity. Remember when Cheerios got away with claiming they lower cholesterol? They changed the wording slightly.

> Our delicious O’s are made from whole grain oats which contain beta-glucan, a soluble fiber that can help lower cholesterol as part of a heart healthy diet

Vodka, combined with a healthy diet, can help lower cholesterol. Their latest scandal, BTW, is that the cereal contains glyphosate.

I've had it with this crap. The government shouldn't be this toothless. Enforcement actions for certain transgressions should start with being ordered to exit business, not end there.

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2 comments · 2 top-level

11235813216y ago

A vodka would not be able to claim that. The FDA allows the “part of a heart healthy diet” language only if the food could actually be part of that diet and the claim can be supported. Cheerios meets that qualification but alcohol does not.

I recommend reading about how the FDA operates.

Accujack6y ago

You're assuming that this "first step" has no impact. It does, and a company that receives one of these letters must undertake measures to correct the problem ($$$) or else face worse sanctions.

Getting a warning letter can also hit a company's stock price, cause a reshuffling of management, and other results.

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