Consumer Advocates: Be Wary of Claims Not Supported by Science

Amidst the recent lawsuits against rubber wristband manufacturer PowerBalance, consumer advocate groups are urging consumers to pay close attention to the science behind the claims companies make. A story out of Australia, The Western Australian reports: “The manufacturer of rubber hologram wristbands that claim to increase strength and flexibility is about to declare bankruptcy. According to some reports a settlement amount of up to $57 million is on the cards after customers sued Power Balance claiming the products were bogus. Earlier this year the company was forced to admit that its product is not scientifically-proven to enhance balance, strength or flexibility. The Australian company distributing the product was forced to close its doors in May after the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) found the product to be a sham. ACCC chairman Graeme Samuel said there was no supportive scientific evidence. "Consumers should be wary of other similar products on the market that make unsubstantiated claims," he said. "They may be no more beneficial than a rubber band." Other similar products in the market such as NRG and EKEN Power Bands – which claim NRL star Billy Slater as a client – have not come under the public scrutiny Power Balance has.” How do you protect yourself from misleading advertising? Were you one who bought this wristband?