Kratom Drink Sickness: Why It’s Still a Bestseller
- Here's a breakdown of the key points from the provided text, focusing on the concerns surrounding Botanic Tonics' "Feel Free" product:
- * Labeling Issues: The primary issue is a lack of transparency in the product's labeling.The label available in a database is outdated (2022, pre-settlement) and doesn't fully disclose...
- * Certifications & Trials: The company claims to have undergone certifications and clinical trials to verify label accuracy.
Here’s a breakdown of the key points from the provided text, focusing on the concerns surrounding Botanic Tonics’ “Feel Free” product:
core concerns & Criticisms:
* Labeling Issues: The primary issue is a lack of transparency in the product’s labeling.The label available in a database is outdated (2022, pre-settlement) and doesn’t fully disclose the amounts of key ingredients like kava root extract and kratom leaf. The “proprietary blend” of 2,600mg is described as “goop” by a former NIH official, suggesting it contains undisclosed ingredients.
* FDA Compliance: The label doesn’t meet FDA requirements for detailing the amount of kava root extract or ground kratom leaf.
* Lack of Verification: There’s a general lack of independent fact-checking in the supplement industry to ensure label accuracy. It’s arduous to verify what’s actually in the product.
* Ingredient Concerns: While Botanic Tonics claims no kratom extract is used, the label does list kratom alkaloids. The concentration of these alkaloids (25mg) is a point of concern given the overall blend size.
Botanic Tonics’ Response:
* Certifications & Trials: The company claims to have undergone certifications and clinical trials to verify label accuracy.
* FDA-Registered Facility: Ingredients are manufactured in an FDA-registered facility.
* No Extracts/Concentrates: They state the product contains no kratom extract, concentrates, or synthetic ingredients.
Consumer Experience:
* Negative Side Effects: Ashley Snider reports experiencing illness from using Feel Free and spending a meaningful amount of money on the product.
* marketing Practices: Snider received a recipe book after cancelling her subscription, which she perceived as promoting continued use.Botanic Tonics disputes this characterization, stating it was a general recipe book.
Overall Impression:
the article paints a picture of a product with questionable labeling practices and a lack of transparency. While Botanic Tonics defends its product and claims compliance, concerns remain about the full ingredient breakdown and the potential for undisclosed substances within the proprietary blend. The article highlights the broader issue of limited oversight in the dietary supplement industry.