Consumer Information Literacy

Has anyone else noticed the utter nonsense words being used to peddle shampoo lately? My wife and I have discussed this nonchalantly in the past, but I just realized a possible tie-in to information literacy.

Here's an example from my showering experience this morning: I use Fructis' Sleek and Shine hair products. Every bottle of Fructis claims it contains "nutritive micro oils." What the heck is a nutritive micro oil?!

The American Heritage Dictionary defines nutritive as, "1. Nutritious; nourishing. 2. Of or relating to nutrition." Etymologically speaking, the term comes from the same Latin root as the common nomenclature "nutritious" which means to nurse or suckle. Why does Fructis use an uncommon word for a common purpose? Does "nutritive" sounds more appealing to consumers? It sounds made up to me.

Let's move on to "fruit micro oils." Research exists that proves certain plant oils, namely juniper berry oil, posses antibacterial qualities, but I've been unable to pinpoint any research extolling the benefits of "fruit micro oils" to hair/scalp care.

Product marketing directors have an obligation to provide accurate descriptions of their products.