QuickCheck: Did the Health Ministry endorse a pair of 'health-boosting' socks?

SOME folks believe that in order to be happy, you have to look after your feet. While it's true that you would be much happier if you lived life without athlete's foot, corns or bunions, a local company seems to have taken it a step too far by saying their socks offer the secret to healthier life. In an advert they have posted on social media, they even alleged that the Health Ministry had certified their socks and that the ministry was even promising a refund for unsatisfied customers.

Is it true that the Health Ministry is endorsing their socks as good for your health?

Verdict:

FALSE

In a statement on both its Facebook and Twitter accounts on Sunday (July 9), the Health Ministry has called foul on the advert and categorically denied certifying the socks as a health product.

It went on to admonish the posters for being irresponsible in trying to mislead the public by misusing its name.

"Parties involved even stated that 'the Health Ministry promised to refund if it is not effective'.

"This can lead to confusion among the public since the ministry did not certify the product," said the statement.

Accordingly, the ministry advised the public to stop sharing such information.

"Be careful and don't be easily fooled by product offers that can attract interest and emotions by checking facts and information on trusted platforms.

"Action will be taken under Sections 211 and 233 of the Communications and Multimedia Act 1998, for having distributed false information containing misunderstandings and untrue content with a specific purpose for the sole purpose of profit," he said.

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