Disclosure or disclaimer must for celebrities, influencers endorsing as health experts: Govt

Even medical practitioners, health and fitness experts holding certifications from recognized institutions are required to "disclose" that they are certified health/fitness experts and medical practitioners while sharing information or promoting products or services or making any health-related claims.IANSRepresentative image..

New Delhi: The government said "disclosure or disclaimer" is must for celebrities, influencers and virtual influencers while endorsing as health experts or medical practitioners as it issued additional guidelines on Thursday..

"Celebrities, influencers and virtual influencers presenting themselves as health experts or medical practitioners, when sharing information, promoting products or services or making any health-related claims, must provide clear disclaimers, ensuring the audience understands that their endorsements should not be seen as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment," the ministry said...

The ministry further said the celebrities, influencers and virtual influencers presenting themselves as health experts or medical practitioners should "clearly distinguish between their personal views and professional advice" and "refrain from making specific health claims without substantiated facts"...

"The additional guidelines aim to deal with misleading advertisements, unsubstantiated claims and ensure transparency in health and wellness endorsements," the ministry said, adding that this guideline will further strengthen the industry and protect consumer interests...

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