Chemist body requests removal of HealthOk ad that asserts 'vegetarians lack certain nutrients'

HealthOk tablets posted an advertisement on January 5, 2024, that drew attention of the All India Organisation of Chemists and Druggists (AIOCD), prompting them to request the removal of the ad.

The chemist body has called on the managing director of Mankind Pharma, the manufacturer of HealthOk, to take down the advertisement to avoid potential legal consequences under the Consumer Protection Act 1986 and Sales of Goods Act 1930.

The advertisement centers around the idea that most multivitamin tablets are labelled as ‘non-vegetarian,’ which leads to the character's response that vegetarians may lack certain nutrients. The ad argues that non-vegetarians tend to be healthier, a claim that the chemists’ body finds objectionable.

The ad claimed that its multivitamin tablets can address nutritional deficiencies and offer additional energy benefits due to Taurine and Ginseng.

The ad was posted with the caption: "One-third of the Indian population adheres to a vegetarian diet. However, individuals following a vegetarian lifestyle are more prone to vitamin deficiencies."

Media reports highlight that the AIOCD views the ad as deceptive and contrary to the well-accepted health benefits of vegetarianism. They contended that the ad suggests vegetarians are more susceptible to vitamin deficiencies and that HealthOk can prevent this.

According to media reports, the chemist body emphasised the prevalence of vegetarianism in India, backed by the Prime Minister and many chief ministers. The AIOCD also accused the advertisement of promoting an inaccurate and potentially harmful narrative.

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