- Dragon’s Den episode re-edited
- Acu Seeds’ claims questioned
- BBC responds to criticism
A show record was set when all six Dragons offered to invest in Acu Seeds in the episode broadcast earlier this month.
Following its removal from the iPlayer, an episode of Dragon’s Den, which sparked criticism for endorsing “unfounded” claims about the treatment of chronic fatigue syndrome, has been re-edited and uploaded.
In response to the concerns raised, a clarification has been added to the program on the streaming platform,” according to a statement on the corporation’s website.
As businesswoman Giselle Boxer promotes her Acu Seeds enterprise, a text message appears on-screen: “Acu Seeds should not be considered a panacea for any medical condition; for guidance on health-related matters, consult a qualified healthcare professional.”
In the January 18 premiere, Ms. Boxer said “diet, acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and ear seeds” helped her recover. She was recovering from myalgic encephalomyelitis, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome.
Her involvement with ear seeds and tiny acupressure devices without needles inspired her to establish her brand, Acu Seeds. An unprecedented six Dragons extended proposals to her company, setting a new record for the competition.
Typically, five Dragons inhabit the den. Steven Bartlett, Peter Jones, Deborah Meaden, Touker Suleyman, and Sara Davies comprise the current regular lineup. However, for the Acu Seeds episode, former NFL player, financier, and commentator Gary Neville appeared as a guest Dragon on the panel.
Acu Seeds’ website disclaimer notes that the product is not meant to diagnose, treat, prevent, or cure disease.
Ear seeds, according to their proponents, stimulate pressure receptors in the ears.
Concerns Over ME Treatment Claims
The NHS reports that there is currently no cure for ME. I have a chronic condition characterized by symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, and concentration difficulties. However, specific treatments may help manage the condition.
Action for ME was “very concerned” with how Ms. Boxer’s proposal was presented. The organization wrote an open letter to the chairs of two House of Commons select committees.
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The group stated that the comments implied the product was “responsible for her recovery and, as such, ought to be regarded as an effective treatment.” However, “at this time, no known effective treatment exists for ME.”
It also wrote to BBC director-general Tim Davie about the episode, the organisation revealed on social media.
Following complaints, the BBC defended the business’s inclusion on Friday, stating that products featured on the program “should not be interpreted as an endorsement of them.”
Nevertheless, the company stated that it was diligently considering the concerns that were expressed. The episode would be unavailable on iPlayer during the review process.
