FTC Returning $425,000 in Disney-Themed Vitamin Refunds

WASHINGTONAs part of a settlement with vitamin marketer NBTY Inc. and two subsidiaries over allegations that the companies made false health claims, the FTC is returning around $425,000 to consumers who purchased Disney- and Marvel Hero-themed vitamins for their children.

More than 10,000 checks were mailed to consumers who have 60 days to cash them, FTC said.

Eligible consumersthose who submitted claims for vitamins they purchased between May 1, 2008 and Sept. 30, 2010are receiving up to $125 per household in connection with their purchases of the vitamins.

The vitamins were sold online and at major retailers such as CVS Pharmacy, Kroger, Kmart, Meijer, Rite Aid, Target, Walgreens and Wal-Mart. Popular characters like Disney Princesses, Finding Nemo, Spider-Man and Winnie the Pooh were featured on the products.

FTC charged NBTY, Inc. and its subsidiaries  NatureSmart LLC and Rexall Sundown, Inc. with making deceptive claims that the vitamins promote eye and brain development in children. The agency further alleged the companies misled consumers over the amount of DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid, that was used in their line of multivitamin gummies and tablets.

The refunds are part of a 2010 settlement FTC reached with the companies.