Weight-Loss Firm Settles With FTC Over Ad Claims

A Simi Valley company that makes health and weight-loss products has settled with the Federal Trade Commission over allegations that it made unsubstantiated claims about its products in Spanish-language ads.

Kave Elahie, which does business as M.E.K. International, was one of four companies that settled with the FTC. The other companies were New York City-based Mountain Springs LLC, and Max Perez; Leeka Products of Glendale; and San Juan, Puerto Rico-based Efficient Labs Inc.

The settlements require the companies to no longer make claims that are unsubstantiated or not based on sound science and research.

The settlements are part of a new initiative to protect Spanish-speaking consumers from fraudulent ads. “Campana Alerta” is a joint effort among the Mexican government, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and the FTC. The initiative includes law enforcement actions and a public education program.

Officials said the program is designed to protect consumers who may be duped by health care fraud schemes, which often prey on victims of disease by offering “miracle cures.”

“Advertisers recognize the incredible purchasing power of Spanish-speaking consumers,” said Jodie Bernstein of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection. “Total Spanish-language advertising expenditures hit an estimated $1.2 billion for 1996, a 13% increase over the previous year.”