Natural Organics, FTC Battle Over ADHD Claims

Natural Organics, FTC Battle Over ADHD Claims

MELVILLE, N.Y.--Natural Organics, makers of the Nature's Plus line of dietary supplements, issued a public challenge to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) over the agency's complaint about a product that allegedly helps symptoms associated with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) or Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD). In response to FTC's August complaint that Natural Organics made unsubstantiated claims for its "Pedi-Active A.D.D." product, the Melville, N.Y.-based company and its CEO, Gerald Kessler, responded that FTC had refused to review its scientific studies for its products.

"We have asked the FTC to have their experts meet with our experts to determine the validity of the studies," Kessler said. "They have refused to allow this to happen." According to the company, it has submitted documentation to the FTC, including 18 double-blind studies that support the product's efficacy. In addition, Kessler said that the company plans to donate 100 percent of the profits derived from sales of the product (after resolution of FTC's complaint) to research on symptom relief for ADD. "This is all about principle, not money," Kessler said.

On FTC's end, it said Natural Organics could not substantiate the advertising claims it made relating to improved scholastic performance, increased attention span and controlled ADHD symptoms. FTC sent a notice order to Natural Organics that prohibits it from making the claims and from using "A.D.D." [or any other name that suggests it can inhibit ADHD symptoms] in the sale of Pedi-Active or any similar product, unless the company establishes a reasonable basis for making the claims.

"ADHD is a serious condition, and parents who are concerned about it should talk to their children's doctors about appropriate treatment," Jodie Bernstein, director of FTC's Bureau of Consumer Protection, said at the time the complaint was issued. "Consumers should be able to rely on advertising for solid information when they're making purchasing decisions. If they can't trust the claims in the ads, they're in a tough spot, particularly parents who are trying to do the best for their kids."

The FTC issues complaints when it has "reason to believe" that a law is being violated. The agency planned to monitor the company in order to establish compliance with its notice order. To view a copy of the complaint and the notice order, visitwww.ftc.gov. Natural Organics can be found online atwww.naturesplus.com.