FTC Alleges Internet Fraud Over Acai Weight Loss Supplement

Washington, DCThe Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is warning consumers about internet fraud relating to advertisements for acai weight loss products.

span itemprop="image" itemscope itemtype="https://schema.org/ImageObject" style="display:block">The FTC is suing Central Coast Nutraceuticals, the maker of AcaiPure and colon supplement colopure, for fraud. The company runs ads on the television, internet and radio claiming that the products can lead to 25 to 30 pounds of weight loss in the first month.

"Too many 'free' offers come with strings attached," David Vladeck, director of the FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, said. "In this case, the defendants promised buyers a 'risk free' trial and then illegally billed their credit cards again and again -- and again. We estimate about a million people have fallen victim to this scam."

According to United Press International, the acai berry, which is native to Central and South America, is purported to have antioxidant properties, though there has yet to be any scientifically proven link made to weight loss.

Vladeck told the news source that he would not take the supplements because the pills do not always contain acai.