Author: Attorney-at-law Simon Gjern Pedersen
At first glance, this sounds like a positive feature. However, under Danish law, all frying pans must be free from these substances. Therefore, it cannot be highlighted as an environmental or health benefit.
Following the initial reprimand, the companies covered the original stickers with new ones stating that the previous claim was an error in violation of the Marketing Practices Act. They also added that the products remain PFOS/PFOA-free – but this statement was also criticized, as it still emphasized a legally required feature.
The Ombudsman’s assessment is consistent with established practice: It is unlawful to market a feature as an environmental or climate-related advantage if it merely complies with legal requirements. Such claims can mislead consumers into believing a product is greener than competing products, even though all must meet the same standards.
