BANGKOK: Public Health Minister Somsak Thepsuthin acknowledged problems associated with The Icon Group’s advertising and product labels, raising concerns about a potential pyramid scheme after more than 300 individuals reported damages exceeding 100 million baht.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Somsak Thepsuthin highlighted issues identified by the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB), which had previously alerted the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) about possible violations of Sections 40 and 41 concerning food product advertising and labeling. The OCPB pointed out five cases where The Icon Group allegedly used incorrect labels on their products. Mr. Thepsuthin confirmed that while the products themselves were not problematic, the labeling and advertising methods were exaggerated and misled consumers.
The Public Health Minister also detailed the legal actions taken in response to these violations. The Icon Group has been fined under the Food Act of 2009, with all penalties now settled. Furt
hermore, a criminal case regarding these issues is still progressing through the courts.
Mr. Thepsuthin expressed additional concerns about the company’s recruitment practices, suggesting that the payment of membership fees hints at a pyramid scheme structure. This matter has attracted the attention of the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) due to the significant number of affected individuals and the substantial financial impact.
The full extent of the legal and regulatory consequences for The Icon Group will become clearer as investigations continue and the ongoing court case concludes.