A CRACKDOWN on false claims of nutrition in chicken breast smoothies both on the labels and advertising is underway after social media users drew attention to the discrepancy, Amarin TV said today (June 18).
Ms. Suphamas Isarabhakdi, minister attached to the Prime Minister’s Office, in her capacity as supervisor of Office the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), ordered the agency to join the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in investigating allegations on social media that the protein content in chicken breast smoothies does not match the label.
This product is popular with health-conscious consumers including those managing their diet, exercising frequently, controlling their weight, and need to control sugar intake. The protein content and nutritional information on the label is crucial in deciding whether to purchase a product and if the information is inaccurate, it will lead to serious consequences with this also directly impacting consumer rights, she said.
Mr. Pradermchai Boonchuaylue, adviser to the minister of the Prime Minister’s Office, said OCPB has invited relevant businesses to clarify the facts on June 24 and is coordinating with FDA for joint investigation and legal action.
Mr. Ronnarong Poolpipat, secretary-general of OCPB, said legal action is divided according to the authority of each agency.
Issues regarding labelling and advertising of the benefit, quality, or properties of food fall under the authority of FDA under the Food Act B.E. 2522 (1979). If the quality or nutritional content is found to be lower than what is stated on the label or beyond the legal limit, it may be classified as counterfeit food, punishable by imprisonment from six months to 10 years and a fine from 5,000 to 100,000 baht.
Advertising and sales promotion, such as discount campaigns, come under the jurisdiction of OCPB according to the Consumer Protection Act B.E. 2522 (1979) with the two agencies integrating inspection.
Suphamas urged consumers to check labels, food registration numbers, and nutritional information before purchasing, and to keep records of purchases and advertising messages. If they find any product with misleading claims on the labels or advertising, they should file a complaint via OCPB hotline 1166, the ocpb.go.th website, Damrongtham centres nationwide. For food and labelling issues, they can also contact FDA hotline 1556.
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Top – Two glasses of delicious smoothies. Photo by Fanny Gustafsson on Unsplash
Front Page – Some smoothies. Photo by Jugoslocos on Unsplash
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