Dannon backs off health claims as part of lawsuit settlement

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Updated: August 4, 2011 4:20PM

Registered dietitian Christine Palumbo of Naperville recommended Activia yogurt to a friend with irritable bowel syndrome, and it relieved some of her symptoms.

But such anecdotal evidence is what got yogurt maker Dannon in trouble in the first place.

Illinois is among 39 states that will split a $21 million settlement with Dannon over health claims on two popular yogurts: Activia and DanActive. The settlement stops Dannon from stating these products can prevent, treat or cure a disease without a solid basis for such claims.

“Yogurt is a good food,” Palumbo said. “It’s nutrient rich; I recommend it to my clients, and I eat it myself. We need to look at evidence-based research in a peer-reviewed journal or presented at a respected medical conference. Testimonials, anecdotes, one person’s experience with the food is not the same as scientific evidence.”

Dannon said eating Activia once a day for two weeks would improve digestive function. In reality, a majority of studies found the yogurt product only moderately benefited people — and only those who tripled the amount of servings each day over the two weeks. The states said Dannon went further, without a scientific basis, and claimed eating Activia helped prevent, treat or cure certain diseases, such as colon cancer, chronic constipation and chronic diarrhea.

The states also allege DanActive was marketed as a drink that would build immunity and prevent people from catching a cold or the flu. In reality, no adequate scientific proof backed these claims.

Palumbo said at least two good things will result from the Dannon settlement — consumers will get clarity about the products’ benefits, and food makers will be held accountable for their marketing claims.

“People are looking for a new weapon in their anti-infection arsenal, especially in December and January,” Palumbo said.

She said while there’s no magic bullet for fighting immune or digestive issues, there are ways to boost those systems with nutrition and behavior:

Eat a varied diet rich in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins and vegetable oils.

Get enough sleep — seven to eight hours a night.

Wash hands frequently with soap and water.

Reduce and manage stress.

Avoid smoking and secondhand smoke.

Illinois will receive $425,000 from the settlement to fund consumer education and enforcement of consumer fraud laws.