Regulatory Issues and Misleading Advertising
Balance of Nature has faced significant complaints and regulatory action regarding its advertising practices and unsubstantiated health claims. The company sells dietary supplements made from powdered fruits and vegetables.
FDA Warnings and Legal Action
Since at least 2019, the FDA has repeatedly warned Balance of Nature's parent company, Evig LLC, and its manufacturer about serious regulatory violations. The primary issue was marketing products as drugs capable of treating or preventing diseases like cancer, diabetes, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis without FDA approval. The companies allegedly failed to fix these issues, resulting in a 2023 injunction that temporarily stopped manufacturing and distribution.
False and Deceptive Marketing Lawsuits
Balance of Nature has also settled lawsuits concerning misleading advertising. A $1.1 million settlement was reached with a California task force in July 2023 over false claims about product effectiveness and comparing supplements to whole foods. This settlement included compensation for California residents who bought the products. A separate class-action lawsuit in Illinois also challenged the company's advertising regarding nutritional value and health benefits.
Concerns Over Product Quality and Nutritional Value
Many complaints also address the actual composition and quality of the product.
Minimal Nutritional Content
Despite claims about providing the “nutritional equivalent of over 5 servings of fruits,” critics argue the actual nutritional value is minimal. Consumer groups and experts note that the freeze-drying process removes fiber, and the amount of powdered produce in a daily dose is far less than in whole foods. One critique pointed out the very low calorie content, suggesting a small amount of actual food is present.
Lack of Quality Assurance Transparency
Unlike many reputable supplement brands that provide Certificates of Analysis (COAs) from third-party testing, Balance of Nature does not make this information public. Customer service reportedly provides vague assurances about internal testing instead of verifiable external proof.
Unappealing Product Experience
Some users have complained about the physical aspects, such as large capsules that are hard to swallow and the unpleasant smell and texture of the Fiber & Spice powder.
Subscription and Customer Service Woes
Customer reviews often mention frustrating experiences with the company's subscription model and customer service.
Difficulty Canceling Subscriptions
Numerous customers report difficulty canceling recurring subscriptions, often requiring a phone call where they face aggressive sales pitches. Some claim cancellation requests were ignored, leading to continued shipments and billing.
High Cost and Billing Issues
Many consumers find the products expensive, especially compared to the cost of actual fruits and vegetables. High costs are compounded by frequent billing problems, including charges for skipped orders or unwanted shipments.
Balance of Nature vs. Real Food & Competitors
| Feature | Balance of Nature Supplements | Real Fruits & Vegetables | Leading Competitor (e.g., Juice Plus) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | High. ~ $90 for 1 month supply | Low to moderate, varies | High, but some studies exist |
| Nutritional Value | Potentially minimal, fiber removed, small amounts | High, with fiber, vitamins, minerals | Variable; some more transparent on potency |
| Fiber Content | Low in Fruits & Veggies, separate Fiber & Spice product | High and naturally occurring | Can be low or supplemented |
| FDA Compliance | History of violations, received injunction | N/A (whole foods) | Varies by manufacturer |
| Third-Party Testing | Not publicly available | N/A (raw food) | Varies; transparent brands provide COAs |
| Overall Experience | Reportedly poor customer service, difficult cancellation | No subscription issues, fresh taste | Varies by brand and customer experience |
Conclusion
Complaints about Balance of Nature highlight significant concerns regarding marketing, product value, and customer service. Regulatory actions and legal settlements confirm a history of false and misleading health claims. Consumer experiences detail frustration with high prices, aggressive subscription tactics, and a lack of transparency about product quality. Consumers should be cautious and consult a healthcare provider before purchasing, considering the cost and questionable efficacy compared to a whole-food diet. The FDA's press releases offer official information on the 2023 consent decree against the manufacturer.