Conopco, Inc.; Van Den Bergh Foods Company; Analysis to Aid Public Comment

Résumé

In settlement of alleged violations of federal law prohibiting unfair or deceptive acts or practices and unfair methods of competition, this consent agreement, accepted subject to final Commission approval, would prohibit, among other things, the New York City-based manufacturer of margins and spreads from making unsubstantiated or false health or nutrient content claims for any of the margarine and butter products it markets. In addition, in any advertisement including a ``no cholesterol'' claim for a margarine or spread that contains a significant amount of fat, Conopco has agreed to clearly state the total fat content. The agreement settles Commission allegations stemming from Conopco's national advertising campaign for Promise margarine that focused on consumers' heart health concerns.