United States - First Probiotics Case

A subsidiary of Nestle S.A. has settled FTC charges that it made allegedly deceptive health claims for BOOST Kid Essential. According to the FTC, Nestle falsely claimed that probiotics in a special straw could prevent upper respiratory tract infections, protect against the flu and the common cold, and reduce absences from day care or school due to illness. The settlement requires Nestle to get FDA approval for certain health claims before advertising them. This was the FTC's first case challenging advertising for probiotics - live, beneficial bacteria found naturally in many foods and promoted to help digestion and fight harmful bacteria.

Read the press release.