343. Misbranding of Venus Tablets.   IT. S. v. 66 Cartons and 80 Cartons of Venus
Tablets.   Default decrees of condemnation and destruction.    (F. D. C. Nos.
2265, 4094.   Sample Nos. 30305-E, 31965-E.)
The labeling of this product bore false and misleading representations regarding
its efficacy in the conditions indicated hereinafter and failed to bear adequate
directions for its use and such adequate warnings as are necessary for the protec-
tion of users.   It was also deceptively packaged.
On June 25,1940, and April 10,1941, the United States attorney for the Northern
District of Illinois filed libels against 146 cartons of Venus Tablets at Chicago,
111., alleging that the article had been shipped in interstate commerce on or about
May 6 and September 22, 1940, by the Thoro Sales Service from Los Angeles,
Calif.; and charging that it was misbranded.
Each carton contained a bottle labeled "Venus Tablets" and an envelope labeled    V
"Sample Tablets V-76 Laxative Tablets."   Analyses showed that the Venus Tab-
lets contained rhubarb root, kelp, Irish moss, and green leafy material; and that i
the V-76 Tablets contained dried rhubarb root, cranberries, and green leafy mate- V
rial. The carton was nearly 1 Inch taller than was necessary to hold the bottle
and sample.
The article was alleged to be misbranded in that its labeling was false and mis-
leading since it created the impression that the article, by virtue of its physiologi-
cal activity, would have a substantial effect in the control of body weight, would
enable one to arrive at a satisfactory weight, would enable one to attain an ideal
and slender form, and would cause one to lose ugly fat, feel better and look better;
whereas it would not be efficacious for such purposes.
It was alleged to be misbranded further in that its labeling failed to bear ade-
quate directions for use of the Venus Tablets and V-76 Laxative Tablets and
failed to bear adequate warnings against their use by children or against unsafe
dosage or methods or duration of administration in such manner and form as are
necessary for the protection of users. It was alleged to be misbranded further in
that its container, i. e., carton, was so made, formed, or filled as to be misleading.
On October 21,1940, and May 13, 1941, no claimant having appeared, judgments
of condemnation were entered and the product was ordered destroyed.