Note: This advice is given by the CAP Executive about non-broadcast advertising. It does not constitute legal advice. It does not bind CAP, CAP advisory panels or the Advertising Standards Authority.
This section should be read in conjunction with the entry on Health: Therapies (General)
What is Enzyme therapy?
This treatment involves ingesting plant-derived and pancreatic enzymes. Practitioners often claim that the therapy will improve the digestive and immune systems.
What claims are likely to be problematic?
To date, ASA and CAP have not been provided with robust evidence to support any treatment claims for Enzyme Therapy.
Unless marketers hold a robust body of evidence, any claims to treat medical conditions or their symptoms are likely to be a problem (12.1).
What about conditions for which medical supervision should be sought?
Claims to offer treatment on conditions for which medical supervision should be sought are likely to be considered to discourage essential treatment unless that treatment is carried under the supervision of a suitably qualified health professional (12.2).
Guidance on Health Therapies and Evidence QA (Sept 2011)