Cookie ad case can become a legal landmark

A cookie manufacturer that claimed in its advertisements its products are made with a kind of nutritious mushroom and thus can treat some stomach ailments has been dragged to court for misleading consumers, because they are said to be no different from ordinary cookies. Comments:

Disputes over cookies with similar claims have become common over the past few years, but food safety authorities seem to have overlooked the issue. This has happened even when discussions and answers are available on online sites for popular science. Food safety and quality inspection departments should strengthen their supervision to stop manufacturers from indulging in dubious practices. In fact, the lawsuit could be a good opportunity to test whether the cookie is a standard snack or if it really is a cure for stomach ailments, and provide an authoritative and clear answer to consumers.

Deng Haijian, July 9