The European Commission’s treatment of the use of the word “probiotic” on the labelling of foodstuffs as an unauthorized health claim has been found to be consistent with EU law by the European Ombudsman.
EU Probiotics Deadlock: Ombudsman Finds ‘No Maladministration’ By The Commission
In response to an IPA Europe complaint, European Ombudsman Emily O’Reilly finds that the Commission’s interpretation of EU food legislation in relation to probiotics is “reasonable and in line with the main goal of this legislation, which is to ensure a high level of consumer protection.”

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HBW Insight speaks to AESGP director general Jurate Švarcaite about what's on the agenda for the upcoming 61st AESGP Annual Meeting, which will take place in Warsaw, Poland, between 2-4 June. Highlights include the role of prevention in self-care, discussions about how regulators will ensure the competitiveness of European industry on the world stage and incoming changes to sustainability legislation.
“Overall, no unexpected/new data or findings” were presented to Germany's Expert Committee for Prescription in the most recent Rx-to-OTC switch application for sildenafil (25mg and 50mg), according to medicines regulator BfArM, resulting in a third rejection in three years.
“Protecting the environment is a shared responsibility. It is unfair to expect only two sectors to fund wastewater treatment modernization and operation,” argues AESGP director general Jurate Švarcaite.
Like many European firms, Stada Arzneimittel's 2024 earnings were held back by a soft cough, cold and flu season. However, key launches in its home market Germany and in the Middle East offset this impact and led to 3% organic growth for Stada's Consumer Healthcare business.
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Whether called “dark patterns,” “shady” online marketing practices, or simply deception on the internet, the issue has taken on high importance at the US Federal Trade Commission and is being tackled by new laws in a growing number of states. Amin Talati Wasserman partner Lauren Aronson discusses in this interview with HBW Insight.
BBB National Programs found FTC’s proposed Trade Regulation Rule on the Use of Consumer Reviews and Testimonials largely effective with some certainty on whether product reviews or customer testimonials are violations of its false advertising standards. But it =expects some clarifications may come in final rule.
Attorneys are watching how the Federal Trade Commission and other authorities address online marketing practices this year that are increasingly viewed as potentially harmful to consumers.