Emergen-C Lawsuit

Emergen-C: Facing Double Dose of Lawsuits Over Misleading Claims

Alacer Corp., the maker of popular effervescent vitamin C supplement Emergen-C, has been hit with two separate class action lawsuits alleging deceptive marketing practices and false advertising. Both lawsuits raise concerns about the accuracy of Emergen-C’s claims regarding its immune-boosting abilities and vitamin C content.

Lawsuit #1: The Immunity Illusion (2009-2013)

• Claims: This lawsuit alleged that Alacer Corp. misled consumers by suggesting that Emergen-C could significantly boost the immune system and prevent common illnesses like colds and flu.
• Outcome: The lawsuit settled in 2013 for $6.45 million, with class members eligible for refunds of up to $36. Alacer Corp. denied any wrongdoing.

Lawsuit #2: Gummy Misrepresentation (2016-2018)

• Claims: This lawsuit focused specifically on Emergen-C gummies, alleging that they contained only 250mg of vitamin C per serving, significantly less than the 750mg advertised on the label.
• Outcome: The lawsuit settled in 2018 for $1.75 million, with class members receiving refunds of up to $3.50 per bottle of gummies purchased. Again, Alacer Corp. maintained their innocence.

Beyond the Lawsuits: A Caveat for Consumers

• Regulatory Gap: It’s important to remember that Emergen-C is classified as a dietary supplement, not a medication. Unlike medications, dietary supplements face less stringent regulations from the FDA regarding claims and effectiveness.
• Limited Evidence: Scientific evidence supporting the specific immune-boosting claims made about Emergen-C is limited. Consumers should approach such claims with caution and rely on their doctors for personalized health advice.

Emergen-C remains a popular choice for many seeking a convenient vitamin C boost. However, these lawsuits highlight the importance of critical consumerism and consulting healthcare professionals before relying solely on marketing claims, especially for unregulated products.