GNC Magnesium Lawsuit: Did They Shortchange You on Magnesium?

Troubled supplement company GNC Holdings is facing a new class action lawsuit alleging their "Super Magnesium" pills contain significantly less magnesium than advertised. The lawsuit claims the supplements, advertised as having 400mg of magnesium per serving, actually contain closer to 150mg. 

Deceptive labeling and missing magnesium

The lawsuit, filed by Ramon Soto in Illinois, centers on allegations of deceptive labeling and marketing practices. He points to GNC's advertised "Truth in Labeling Policy," which claims independent verification of all label information. 

However, Soto argues independent testing revealed a significant discrepancy. The "Super Magnesium" supplements, advertised as containing 400mg of magnesium per serving, allegedly only contain around 152mg.

This shortfall, Soto claims, could have real health consequences for consumers who rely on the advertised amount for benefits like muscle function and bone health. He argues that misbranded supplements have no economic value and that consumers are entitled to a refund. 

Essentially, Soto is saying that if consumers knew they weren't getting the advertised amount of magnesium, they wouldn't have paid for the product.

What is magnesium and why do people take it?

Magnesium is a vital mineral involved in many bodily functions, including energy production, bone development, and DNA/RNA synthesis. It also aids in transporting calcium and potassium for nerve impulses, muscle contractions, and normal heart rhythm, according to the National Institutes of Health.

People take magnesium supplements primarily to address deficiencies and support various health aspects like muscle function, bone health, cardiovascular health, and nervous system support. It also plays a crucial role in energy production, glucose regulation, and maintaining a healthy sleep cycle.

Additionally, magnesium supplements are used to manage conditions like muscle cramps, migraines, anxiety, and insomnia. Deficiencies can occur due to poor diet, medical conditions that impair absorption, or increased needs during pregnancy and aging.

Magnesium is found naturally in many foods, including green leafy vegetables (like spinach), nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish. But for many people, the easiest route to getting enough magnesium is taking supplements.

A history of controversy for GNC supplements

GNC has faced a string of controversies over the quality and marketing of its supplements. In 2020, consumers sued them for allegedly using a cheaper, less effective form of glucosamine in their joint health products. This wasn't just an isolated incident. In 2019, GNC settled a lawsuit for $6 million over deceptive sales practices that misled customers about discounts. 

Even more concerning, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) took action in 2016 after finding GNC included potentially harmful and illegal ingredients in some supplements. As part of the $2.25 million settlement, GNC pledged to improve its quality control measures.

These issues continued in 2015 when a New York Attorney General investigation revealed problems with GNC's herbal supplements. The company responded by promising stricter quality control measures, including DNA testing for plant authenticity and allergen testing.

In this proposed class action lawsuit, Soto wants to represent GNC consumers from across the country. 

Soto is  represented by Sergei Lemberg of Lemberg Law, LLC.

The GNC magnesium false advertising class action lawsuit is Soto v GNC Holdings, LLC, Case No. 1:24-cv-03613, in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois.