Politics Washington

Regulators crack down on caffeine-infused underwear

By Chad Merda

The Federal Trade Commission says there’s something dirty about underwear that’s infused with caffeine and claimed to help those wearing them lose weight.

Reuters reports that regulators say Wacoal America and Norm Thompson Outfitters have agreed to refund money to customers and pull their ads claiming the caffeine-infused bras, girdles and leggings would result in weight and cellulite reduction.

If someone says you can lose weight by wearing the clothes they are selling, steer clear. The best approach is tried and true: diet and exercise, said Jessica Rich, director of the FTC’s Bureau of Consumer Protection.

Norm Thompson was selling clothing with Lytess brand fabric that was infused with caffeine, which the company claimed would break down fat.

Slimming and firming results are visible in under a month, the company said in one advertisement the commission quoted in its complaint.

Wacoal America was advertising clothing that had vitamin E, caffeine and other chemicals that it claimed would result in weight loss.

The FTC said the total refunds would be approximately $1.5 million.

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