Question

An online advertisement for a weight-loss product includes before and after photos of a woman who supposedly lost 50 pounds in 3 weeks while taking the product. The bottom of the ad includes the statement, "Results are not typical." This statement is an example of a(n) ________.

1) Misleading claim
2) Scientific evidence
3) Statistical analysis
4) Consumer testimonial

Answer 1

The disclaimer 'Results are not typical' in a weight-loss advertisement represents a consumer testimonial, which indicates the results shown are not standard for all users. The FTC monitors these claims, but ambiguous or exaggerated claims are permissible if not demonstrably false, reminding customers to exercise caution and skepticism.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement "Results are not typical" at the bottom of an advertisement for a weight-loss product is an example of a consumer testimonial. This kind of disclaimer is used to indicate that the spectacular results shown in the ad—losing 50 pounds in 3 weeks—are not what an average customer should expect. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) often checks such factual claims about a product's performance to some extent, but exaggerated or ambiguous language and images are allowed as long as they are not outright falsehoods. Given this, consumers are advised to be skeptical and wary—epitomized by the Latin phrase 'Caveat emptor,' meaning 'let the buyer beware.'