Bulgaria's consumer watchdog has ordered retail chains, pharmacies and traders across the country to prove they are not misleading buyers with supplements, mushrooms and herbs advertised as cures for diseases, including cancer. The Commission for Consumer Protection (KZP) sent them formal orders.
The check covers shops, pharmacies and online sellers. KZP says the supplements are advertised as products that treat and protect against diseases and various conditions.
The commission began the check after it found several products with descriptions that openly promise a cure. Its order to sellers refers to "claims that products on sale can treat diseases, inflammation or impaired functions of the human body".
KZP also cites specific ads. In one, the herb is found in the tropical forests and coastal areas of South America and has "100+ identified bioactive compounds". In another, the spores of the mushroom "contain the highest amount of active ingredients", and the mushroom itself "even treats cancer". A third product "supports the work of the thyroid gland and cures it", and a fourth "cures stomach pain and bowel problems".
Sellers must say what evidence they have that the supplement cures illness. The commission wants scientific studies, expert opinions and documents from the makers. Sellers must also show whether the product is sold as a medicine or in another category.
The commission also wants copies of the maker's labels, packaging and leaflets that describe what the product is for and how it works, as well as details of the batches.
KZP will decide on each product separately. It will judge whether the ad credits the supplement with the power to cure disease or affect impaired body functions. It will also check whether the ad misleads buyers about what the product is for and how it works, and so affects their decision to buy. Under the Consumer Protection Act, this is an unfair trading practice.
If the breach is proved, the fine can reach 4% of the seller's annual turnover. For an unjustifiably raised price on a product, the penalty is between €10,000 and €100,000.
Just the day before, the commission reported a rise in reports of fraud and unfair trading practices in online shopping.