Firm under intense scrutiny in Hamburg
In the realm of dietary supplements, a chocolate bar named Menstru Chocbar, produced by InnoNature, has found itself at the centre of controversy. The bar, which contains a blend of chocolate, cocoa, chopped almonds, freeze-dried strawberries, iron, vitamin B6, and red maca, has been nominated for the Golden Windbag Award 2025 by consumer advocates at Foodwatch for "most brazen advertising lie of the year".
However, InnoNature has vehemently rejected the accusation of ripping off customers with its products and advertising claims. The company maintains that the price of the Menstru Chocbar is in line with comparable vegan functional food products.
As for the claims of the Menstru Chocbar helping with menstrual pain, InnoNature denies making health-related claims about its products. Instead, they assert that the chocolate bar is a vegan snack alternative, not a therapeutic measure.
Scientific evidence suggests that certain dietary supplements may help reduce menstrual pain and related discomfort, though the quality and consistency of this evidence vary. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial found that a preparation of Khaya senegalensis (sold as Khapregesic®) significantly reduced menstrual pain by 45.8%, compared to a 19.5% reduction with a placebo. Magnesium supplementation has also shown promise in reducing the severity of premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms.
Despite these findings, Foodwatch argues that the price of the Menstru Chocbar is high, with a bar costing 3.90 euros and a kilogram costing over 100 euros. Alice Luttropp, a nutrition scientist and consultant, echoes this sentiment, stating that expensive bars, capsules, or powders cannot deliver what they promise regarding menstrual pain relief.
Foodwatch criticizes the advertising claims of the Menstru Chocbar, stating that no chocolate bar can make menstruation 'well-being days'. The organisation has previously criticised violations of the EU's Health Claims Regulation, most recently against the brand More Nutrition.
InnoNature, founded in 2016 and focusing on products for women, has expressed surprise at the nomination for the negative award and is open to dialogue regarding the criticism. The company states that all health-related claims on their products and platforms are based on the official Health Claims Regulation and that they check all formulations internally and externally to ensure compliance with regulations.
It's important to note that while some supplements may offer benefits, they should be considered as part of a broader management strategy, not as standalone cures. Individuals should consult healthcare providers before starting any new supplement regimen. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment has not determined a safe daily intake for red maca, an ingredient in the Menstru Chocbar.
In conclusion, while the Menstru Chocbar has been nominated for a controversial award, the evidence for the effectiveness of certain dietary supplements in alleviating menstrual pain and discomfort is growing. However, more rigorous, long-term studies are needed to strengthen these findings. Consumers are advised to approach claims made by supplement companies with a critical eye and to consult healthcare providers before making any decisions regarding supplementation.
- InnoNature, a company focused on women's health products, has been nominated for the Golden Windbag Award 2025 by Foodwatch for alleged outrageous advertising claims regarding their product, Menstru Chocbar.
- The health and wellness industry is expansive, with various supplements touted for their benefits, such as iron, vitamin B6, and red maca found in Menstru Chocbar.
- Fitness and exercise enthusiasts may also find an interest in nutrition, with healthy diets and recipes featuring global cuisines, like vegan snack alternatives such as the Menstru Chocbar.
- Many supplements, such as Khaya senegalensis (Khapregesic®) and magnesium, have shown promising results in reducing menstrual pain and PMS symptoms, as backed by scientific evidence.
- In the realm of food and drink, consumers are cautioned to approach advertising claims with skepticism and consult healthcare providers before making decisions regarding supplementation.
- Lifestyle choices, including dietary selections and the use of supplements, play a significant role in maintaining overall health and well-being, particularly women's health.
