Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) —  The Committee for the Development of Competition and Protection of Consumer Rights of Uzbekistan has issued a warning regarding misleading advertising of dietary supplements (DS), which is deceiving consumers.

The Committee reported that in recent months, there has been a significant increase in the advertisement of dietary supplements, ointments, tinctures, and similar products through social media and popular messengers such as Telegram. These products are often presented as universal and effective remedies for treating complex diseases that are difficult to address with traditional medicine.

The Competition Committee emphasized that such advertisements often feature false or misleading claims, such as "a cure-all for all diseases" or "miracle remedies."

The advertisements also use endorsements from celebrities, religious figures, and personal success stories of individuals who have used these products. These methods undermine public trust in traditional medicine and encourage self-medication, which could lead to worsening health conditions.

The Committee particularly highlighted the use of religious themes in advertising. Videos and posts featuring religious bloggers and their endorsements create false trust in these products, leading to incorrect conclusions and potential health risks.

According to the Committee, in 2024, about one thousand complaints were registered from citizens who suffered due to such products, with the total damage compensated amounting to 118 million soums.

The Committee reminds that the "Advertising Law" strictly regulates the promotion of dietary supplements. Advertisements must not give the impression that the product is a medicine or has healing properties. It is forbidden to reference cases of recovery or personal testimonials, as well as to encourage a rejection of healthy eating or traditional treatment methods. All advertisements must include a warning: "This product is not a medicine."

Violating these rules is punishable by a fine of 30 basic calculation units.

The Committee urges citizens to be vigilant and critical of the information contained in advertisements.