Dozens of influencers and (former) top athletes mislead followers about supplements
The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority investigated 38 social media accounts and found that 28 influencers and athletes made illegal, unsubstantiated health and medical claims about dietary supplements. The regulatory body has issued fines and warnings, forcing the individuals involved to remove or correct their misleading promotional content.
The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority (NVWA) recently conducted an investigation into social media influencers and former top athletes regarding the promotion of dietary supplements. After reviewing 38 accounts, authorities discovered that 28 of them made illegal claims about their products. These violations primarily involved unproven health benefits, such as unsubstantiated assertions regarding the effects of magnesium, creatine, and electrolytes on physical performance and recovery. In some instances, influencers even made prohibited medical claims suggesting their products could treat or prevent specific health issues.
Prominent figures identified in the report include hockey players Maria Verschoor and Yibbi Jansen, alongside fitness influencers and television personalities who endorsed products like collagen and bone broth with unscientific health promises. Following the investigation, the NVWA took regulatory action by issuing warnings or fines to the non-compliant individuals, while also mandating the removal or correction of the misleading posts. The agency emphasizes that all health-related claims on dietary supplements must be strictly supported by scientific evidence.
Based on reporting by nu. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
