FTC Warns Kids Omega-3 Supplement Marketers

WASHINGTONFTC sent letters last month to companies marketing various omega-3 fatty acid supplements cautioning their product packaging and advertising might be in violation of the FTC Act unless they have scientific evidence to support claims that their products boost, improve, enhance or support brain and vision function and development in children. Also included are claims relating to intelligence, cognitive function, learning ability, focus, mood, memory, attention, concentration, visual acuity and eye health.

FTC gave the companies two weeks to respond and explain the steps they have taken, or intend to take, to ensure they are complying with the law. The agency warned it may take law enforcement action if they make health-related claims for products without scientific proof.

In its letters, FTC described a recent investigation it conducted into similar claims made by Northwest Natural Products Inc., the marketer of Lil Critters Omega-3 Gummy Fish, a childrens omega-3 gummy vitamin. FTC stated in response to its inquiry, NNP quickly modified all marketing materials for Gummy Fish, including product packaging and labeling, to ensure compliance with the FTC Act.