Beware of "Free Trial" Slimming Products - Trading Standards

Trading Standards Service has warned consumers to beware of online offers of slimming products that claim to be available on a ‘free trial basis.’

Consumers have reported to Trading Standards they have been led to believe that, when purchasing their free sample online, they were paying only for its postage and packaging. However, they had in fact signed up to a £69 per month regular supply of the product.

Trading Standards discovered that full details of what consumers were signing up to were hidden within the detailed terms and conditions. It only came to light that consumers had committed to buying a regular supply, when they received a second delivery of the product and £69 was deducted from their bank accounts.

Stephen Thompson, Manager of Consumerline, said: “Consumers should ensure that, when providing bank details for online offers, they always read the terms and conditions carefully to know exactly what they are signing up to. Miracle health scams often target vulnerable people, such as those who are desperate to lose weight or find a cure for illness.”

In addition to the financial issues, Stephen also highlighted the potential health risks.

He said: “Slimming aids can be very expensive and, for some of the products on sale, there is little scientific evidence that using them will result in successful weight loss – indeed, consumers could even be potentially putting their health at risk.

“Research into slimming aids has shown that some products on the market are worthless and even dangerous, containing untested and potentially harmful ingredients. Consumers should always seek professional advice from their doctor or pharmacist before purchasing slimming or other health products.”

Consumers who have concerns about such products should contact Consumerline on 0845 600 6262 or 028 9025 3900 or alternatively log onto the Consumerline website at www.consumerline.org.

Notes to Editors:

1. Consumerline is the telephone and online advice service for Northern Ireland consumers. Telephone advisors provide clear, practical advice on a wide range of consumer issues. If it is appropriate Consumerline will forward details of complaints to the Trading Standards Service for investigation.

2. For media enquiries please contact the DETI Press Office, telephone 028 9052 9297. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.