The makers of a controversial wristband have been ordered to offer full refunds on sales of their product, which they claim improves balance, flexibility and strength by working with the body's energy flow.
The consumer watchdog has delivered a crushing judgment on the popular Power Balance bands by declaring them to be no more beneficial than wearing a rubber band.
It has told the company to give customers their money back if they feel dudded by the sales pitch that the band tunes the body's energy frequency to an ideal 7.83 hertz.
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission chairman Graeme Samuel said Power Balance Australia couldn't provide any scientific evidence to back up the claim.
Power Balance bands originated in the United States and have since adorned the wrists of celebrities and sportspeople the world over.
In Australia it has been seen on members of the visiting English cricket team, the NRL's Benji Marshall, the AFL's Brendan Fevola, jockey Damien Oliver and dual world surfing champion Mick Fanning.
With even actor Russell Crowe an apparent fan, Mr Samuel said it was easy for Australians to be duped.
http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/power-wristbands-a-dud-says-accc-20101223-1968l.html