Weight-loss company to pay $3.7 million for false ads

WASHINGTON – A subsidiary of weight-loss company Medifast Inc. agreed to pay $3.7 million in penalties for false ad claims, Reuters reports.

Jason Pharmaceuticals did not admit any wrongdoing, but instead decided to settle in court.

In addition to the fines, the company will have to meet new compliance requirements from the Justice Department and the Federal Trade Commission.

Medifast ads said consumers could lose up to 5 pounds a week, but did not offer scientific data to back up the claims.

Follow WTOP on Twitter.

(Copyright 2012 by WTOP. All Rights Reserved.)

Federal News Network Logo
Log in to your WTOP account for notifications and alerts customized for you.

Sign up