Advertisment
Website
On the advertisers’ website under the heading “The benefits of our CBD products” the following information was provided:
• “Improves sleep quality
• Helps anxiety and depression
• Relieves Stress
• Reduces pain and inflammation”
Social Media
Post 1:
The post featured an image of a hand holding a CBD product box. The text on the box read:
“CBD oil with a unique natural terpene blend designed to help achieve a restful sleep at night. REST”. The text underneath the image read “Maintain a healthy bedtime routine. 7-9 hours sleep each night and a few sprays of our Rest oil will help you to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to take on each daily task with precision”.
Post 2:
The second post invited viewers to “OUST ANXIETY”, the text underneath read:
“Depression and anxiety disorders are common mental health conditions that can have lasting effects on a person’s health, social life, ability to work, and overall well-being. CBD can have a positive interaction with serotonin receptors in the brain”.
Complaint
The complainant challenged the health claims made in the advertising material. They considered that there was no evidence to substantiate the health claims made in relation to the product.
Response
The advertisers said they were making changes to their marketing material to ensure that there was no misleading language or claims made. They said they prided themselves on transparency with their customers and they had stated in their advertising material that their products were not intended to cure or prevent illness.
Further Information:
The Executive asked the advertisers to indicate the changes made to their advertising and whether the material complained of was still being published. The advertisers did not provide any further response in the matter.
Conclusion
Complaint Upheld.
The Complaints Committee considered the detail of the complaint and the advertisers’ response.
The Complaints Committee noted that robust and independent evidence had not been provided to substantiate the health claims made in the advertising material and concluded that in the absence of this, the advertising was in breach of Section 11.1 of the Code.
Action Required:
The advertising should not appear in the same form again unless relevant and robust substantiation is available for the claims made.
