“On Day 7, Your Pants Will No Longer Fit You!” The bold claim screams from advertisements featuring the smiling faces of “Shark Tank” judges Lori Greiner and Mark Cuban, holding jars of colorful keto gummies. It’s a scene designed to spark hope—and click-throughs. But is there any truth to these claims, or is it just another digital scam targeting weight loss enthusiasts?
In this in-depth exposé, we’ll unravel the full story of how keto gummies became entangled in a web of fake endorsements, celebrity names, and exaggerated promises. Buckle up, because what we’ve uncovered might surprise you.
What Are Shark Tank Keto Gummies, and Why Are They Controversial?
The so-called “Shark Tank keto gummies” promise effortless weight loss through ketosis—a metabolic state where your body burns fat instead of carbohydrates for energy. These gummies are marketed as a shortcut to this state, allowing users to lose weight without the usual dietary restrictions of a ketogenic lifestyle.
However, there’s a major catch: These products were never featured or endorsed by Shark Tank. According to a fact-check by USA Today, no Shark Tank judges have ever backed such gummies or any keto-related products. “The claim is completely false,” stated a spokesperson for the show.
The Scam Playbook: How the Fraud Works
These scams rely on several deceptive tactics, including:
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Fake Endorsements
Ads often feature photos of Shark Tank judges, along with fabricated testimonials. Victims are led to believe these gummies secured a massive investment deal on the show. This couldn’t be further from the truth. -
Celebrity Name-Dropping
Products like “VitaZen Labs Keto Gummies” and “Speedy Keto ACV Gummies” falsely associate themselves with celebrities like Kelly Clarkson. In one instance, scammers claimed Kelly used these gummies for her dramatic weight loss—a claim she has publicly denied. -
Clickbait Ads and Fake News Websites
Many scams originate from phony ABC websites or headlines mimicking legitimate health articles. Once clicked, users are directed to a sleek but fraudulent purchase page.
Real Stories: Victims Speak Out
“I thought it was legit because of the Shark Tank ad,” said Lauren J., a single mother who spent $150 on keto gummies. “The reviews seemed real, but after a week, I noticed charges piling up on my credit card. That’s when I realized it was a scam.”
Lauren’s story isn’t unique. AARP has issued multiple warnings about similar scams, noting that these products often come with hidden subscription fees and deliver no noticeable health benefits.