Illegal Monavie Disease Claims?

A Monavie associate just made a comment on the Monavie Blog here at the MLM Blog Network. Have a look at the comment...

Alicia Miller:

I'm looking for people who are suffering from asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, Monavie drink, has the #1 anti-oxidant to help peaple who suffers from these diseases...go to the site and order...It will give you energy and we're also looking for New Distributors..only $39 for a wholesale account plus the purchase of the product..for more information please call: 1-888-213-2735

Alicia, Alicia, Alicia.

You didn't just say that Monavie will "help people" who suffer from "asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes". Oops, ya did.

Did you know that the FDA and the FTC does not like it when you make this type of health claim?

Officials at the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the Food and Drug     Administration (FDA) say health fraud promoters often target people who are  overweight or have serious conditions for which there are no cures,     including multiple sclerosis, diabetes, Alzheimer's disease, cancer, HIV and     AIDS, and arthritis.

Aside from the illegal claims, let's look at the "#1 anti-oxidant" statement about Monavie.

I'm not sure how Alicia can claim that Monavie is the #1 anti-oxidant when it takes 9 ounces of Monavie to equal 1 concentrated ounce of Xtra in anti-oxidant level. In fact, Xango (Magosteen) has a higher ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capaicity) than Monavie (Acai).*

Not to mention that fact that you can get Mangosteen and Acai at Costco for 1/4 of the price of the Network Marketing product.

Can we learn from all of this?

Of course we can.

Don't make any claims that your product is intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. You will get in trouble.

* ORAC level testing performed by Brunswick labs.

Update: The MLM Blog Network has launched a new forum to allow for uncensored comments about MonaVie.  You can promote your MonaVie business, post your comments and opinions and have a spirited debate with no modoration (outside of outright spam). Sound like fun?

Check out: MonaVie Uncensored

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Learn the truth about MonaVie,
Click Here Now.

Comments

[Aaron Cook]

Great post Ty. Can we say OOOPS!

And that's quite a BIG oops she made. Good way to get Monavie to drop you like a bad habit!

Shine on,
Aaron

[Alicia]

First of all , I said ..HELP PEOPLE WHO ARE SUFFERING, NOT CURE..and I'm sorry, I didn't know that I couldn't get leads from this site..Obviously, I found this site "MONAVIE BLOG" on a Google website..I didn't know that I would catch a beat down from this!!nor am I trying to get dropped from MONAVIE..I will contact my upline to advise of these sites who claim they can get you MONAVIE LEADS!!!

[Joe]

Alicia, I wouldn't get upset just yet. Check the traffic stats on your Mona Vie site over the next couple of days. A link from this blog is bound to send some visitors your way......

[Korey King]

Yep. Can't avoid it.

In any network marketing business, the majority of promoters make claims similar to these - which has spawned the often-used phrase 'network marketing is a business driven by people who don't know how to market and don't know how run a business'.

Alicia - as a Monavie distributor myself, I know a major target market of ours is predominantly those who suffer from arthritis, HBP, diabetes and a host of other health problems. But our product really doesn't help with these problems. Monavie simply provides the anti-oxidants and phyto-nutrients from 19 varied fruits, assisting our bodies to heal themselves.

Any product, or any prescription drug for that matter, does not cure anything (legally and literally).

As for the '#1 anti-oxidant' claim, I'd imagine this was a miscommunicated 'acai - the world's #1 super-food' claim, which is true according to Dr. Nicholas Perricone, as well as repeated by Oprah.

The acai used in Monavie (Opti Acai) does have the highest ORAC score known today (1027 per gram), but Monavie itself is a blend of acai with 18 other health-promoting fruits from all over the color spectrum as identified by our CSO Dr. Ralph Carson. Add a pinch of esterified fatty acids and a dash of glucosamine which have been shown to promote joint health, and you've got a quality product that you can't find at your local Costco.

But yeah. Watch them words. I don't think Monavie will 'drop you like a bad habit' for this one little thing, Alicia. But you should definitely re-evaluate your marketing strategy on the internet if you expect 1) to be successful in our business, and 2) to be taken seriously by people looking to you for help. Know the facts first. Then start the massive blog commenting campaign. Or, you know. Whatever's clever.

[Ty]

Wel said Korey.

[David Speake]

I love fruit, lots of people love fruit...don't make any claims about what monavie does. Best thing is to let people try the juice for themselves they will either feel something or they won't.

[Ty]

MonaVie is a good juice product. The goofy claims might help in the short run, but they will cause more harm in the long run.

[Joe]

I pray that all MonaVie representatives remember the family that gave us the opportunity to distribute their product.
Please do not make any claims that will bring harm to such a great organization as well as the Larsen Family. Our product will speak for itself just work the program that was designed for success.

[Rob]

Nice - bash someone on a claim, then make your own un-supported claim... that Xango has higher ORAC than MonaVie. Does it? Where is that study? And have you looked into the study for faulty testing, or from where the antioxidants come from? Have you read the review of antioxidant supplement studies showing that antioxidants from supplements may actually be harmful? Does Xango spike it's blend with synthetic supplements to get a higher score? Maybe, maybe not. So show us your study if you're going to make claims, and mis-quote other's claims as Alicia so rightly re-states what she said and didn't say. Sorry Ty, I normally like your posts... this one was ill conceived even though I understand, and support your point, that anyone marketing a non-medicine should avoid making "cure" claims.

[Ty]

The study I have from Brunswick shows Noni at 427, Monavie at 518 and Xango at 627 and it is published at:

http://www.oasisoffice.com/_Library/librdoc/ASPbook.pdf

As for Alicia, I'm not sure how this statement can be misquoted:

"I'm looking for people who are suffering from asthma, high blood pressure, diabetes, Monavie drink, has the #1 anti-oxidant to help peaple who suffers from these diseases.."

Is she or is she not saying that MonaVie will help people with asthma, high blood pressure, and diabetes?

[BS]

So, Ty, you get your "research" from an article promoting another health drink?

"Not to mention that fact that you can get Mangosteen and Acai at Costco for 1/4 of the price of the Network Marketing product"

Come on, man, really?

[BS]

Not to mention, the "research" you quote says ACAI, not MONAVIE...
Come on, man, really?

[BS]

Alicia stated: "#1 anti-oxidant to help people"

Key word: Help
Not: Cure

[Ty]

There is a reason that MonaVie corporate has started to come down on associates using the web...you can not say that a natural product "helps" with any disease or the FDA will consider it a drug and that will open up a big mess for MonaVie.

What product do you think was used in the Brunswick testing of Acai?

If the numbers are wrong, what is the ORAC value of MonaVie?

[Kathy]

The ORAC score in MonaVie is 1026.

[Cook]

I loved Korey's response to Alicia. There is a lot to learned from this seasoned network marketer! All I can say is that when you get into a network marketing company you must be careful what claims you do make about your product. That is how "MLM's" get a bad wrap. We don't want people to misrepresent our company or the products we sell. As long as we are honest and we have a good product that helps people then we don't have to make claims. Of course I am not saying that Alicia said anything that was false but sometimes it is how you say it that can me misunderstood or misrepresented! Good luck with Mona Vie Alicia!

[Arthur]

Do some more research on Acai, independent of any MLM companies research departments. The source of the anti-oxidants in Acai is measured in it's freeze dried form because that is it's only stable form. When in a liquid form this breaks down in about 12 hours. That is why most reputable research institutions haven't worked with the fruit itself and only the freeze dried form. The fruit is usually processed and consumed immediately, where available, because it doesn't keep well.

[formerNFLer#29,40,31]

I seemed to have stumbled onto the right sight! When are people going to realize that network marketing was meant to be a face to face business! Myself included! I came up with an idea this morning from an experience I had at work. Im a loan officer, I work from 9:30 in the morning until 8:00pm at night. I was getting teased by the guys at work because I brought my monavie with me everyday. They called me juice boy and said I had the majic juice! Well to make a long story short I signed up all 14 of the loan officers my boss and the Area Manager in the office over a two month period. My Area Manager being the most difficult one. Six of us ended up ganging up on him destroying any rebutles that he thought of and he had no choice but to sign up. So after experiencing that, I decided to get six of my downline who have placed bottles with people and have peaked people's interest or have people that they think would want to jump on board with us to meet up and we all go pitch them together. You know strength in numbers. The first week we signed up 7 distributors together and guess what....... those 7 are coming with us next week! Let me know how ya'll feel about this strategy it worked in the first week for me and my downline and we're so excited we don't plan on stopping!

[Disgusted with MonaVie]

What a scam this entire MonaVie thing is! I am in the downline of the most successful people in MonaVie and they have mislead thousands upon thousands of people by NOT telling them the truth about their MLM experience PRIOR to joining MonaVie. They are very disceptive and are selling the "easily duplicatable" concept which is a SCAM! MonaVie corporate does nothing to discourage the deception. On top of all that, the SECOND most successful couple in MonaVie make their money from the sale of promotional products! The conveniently don't tell you that they are in litigation with another MLM company that they were with previously and that the $ is made in the sale of promotional materials, NOT in the sale of the juice. RUN from this company. It is WRONG for people that are presumed to be in a leadership position, to mislead and deceive others who are looking for accurate information. To convenientley leave out HUGE portions of their background and previous MLM experience and down-play their already proven sales abilities is a total scam. What a great way to get people to join your team... Just tell them a bunch of 1/2 truths, cry a little, lie a little and run to the bank with a smile.

[AmbientHealth]

I am a first time MLM person who never thought I would buy an MLM product let alone become part of one. But I have been so impressed with MonaVie - both the product and the company. It has been an incredibly positive experience for me. I don't understand people like the last poster. I'm not sure what his expectations are/were but you really do have to work in this business and like most sales and marketing you are at an advantage if you're a self-starter with good social skills and a lot of friends. I happen to be an engineer and most of my friends are very analytical and don't jump quickly onto anything. I know I will go more slowly than some at business building, but every person I have turned on to MonaVie has had a positive experience for their health and that is a fabulous thing for me. In particular my mom, who us under regular medical care, had a 31 pt drop in her cholesterol level after 5 weeks drinking the juice and her thyroid score was up so her doctor chose to reduce her medication. That made me so happy!!
Sure MLMs will attract some "get rich quick" people who jeopardize the legitimacy of the business, but this product is just too great to pass up simply because it's sold by MLM. You don't have to join to buy - but because I joined, and shared, I am getting my juice for free. Starbucks doesn't do that for it. I dig it. And considering that a pint of blueberries at Whole Foods costs me $4.99 and a 1oz shot of wheat grass is $1.50, I think MonaVie is a great value too. That's my $0.02.

[stillundecided]

I am thinking about joining the MonaVie team. It all seems so confusing. Can anyone offer advice?

[KingsForHealth]

stillundecided - If you know of anyone that has noticed a difference in how they feel, then try the juice for yourself. If you have tried the product and you notice a difference in how you feel, then join. Try before you buy! For many people, the product itself brings them in as distributors.

[Zheka]

This one is for formerNFLer#29,40,31.

I know precisely whom you are talking about. And have a suggestion for you"---please don't take it as an offense------"

You should come more often to the open meetings, and listen to some CD. Every time, these guys mention that they DID have previous experience with MLM. How much more truth do you want?

Second. They themselves said that the documentation you are buying from the support group is written by them. It does not take a genius to figure out, that yes, they do get profits from that company. So what? I'd rather pay for the material that has been tested and go with it to build my MonaVie business, and not complain about something this insignificant.

Good luck with your business, and keep your spirit high.

MonaVie is great. Do it right, read the MAP book and full speed ahead.

[Zheka]

Sorry. This blog is for the Disgusted with MonaVie

[wrong-sided]

Is there anything like being put on the wrong side in this MLM? such as being put on someone's left in a right-leg upline?

[Jim]

Remember 99% of the distributors do not make a profit in MonaVie. Prospects do not know this up front. The product has preservatives, chemicals, and is pasteurized. It's not fresh by any means and is very expensive. I would not call it a business. You're not selling a product. You're trying to recruit others to recruit others, and so on. Stay away fro MLM's; don't waste your time and money. It's a pyramid scheme. Less than 1% make any money. The odds of making money is worse than gambling.

[Mary]

I "bought into" the Monavie thing, but don't have anyone on the "right leg" (having recently relocated to another state where I don't have any friends to pressure into buying/trying). Anyway, does anyone have any info re: the background of the company? I mean, who are they really? What is their philosophy, their political leanings, and don't give me the "They just want to sell the juice" answer. And I'm thinking Jim is right, something I knew from the beginning but chose to ignore.

[Unleashed]

It is interesting that some people can come online and criticize there up line for not doing what they may or may have not said in regards to helping you with your business.

There are a few things you should consider

1. You are in Business for your self.
2. You are a 1099 position not a W2, no one controls you.
3. If you need others to build your business for you to be successful you are going to be poor for the rest of your life.
4. They never told you that it was a WORK FREE opportunity did they? I doubt it.

I have been in the business for less than a week and have 38 people on my team and have just earned the position of Bronze executive. I did it because the plan is simple and requires some work. Follow what the leaders are asking you to do and maybe you will be surprise at the results.

Blog On :?0

[Unleashed]

Hey wrong-sided obviously you are not well educated about MLM that fact that you made comments such as " pyramid scheme " shows how really smart you are not. I would like you to describe to me what is the true definition of a “pyramid scheme “ according to the Federal Laws.

The part about "Less than 1% make any money” you are obviously not part of the 1% of society that are wealthy.

What is this about? " I would not call it a business. You're not selling a product. You're trying to recruit others to recruit others, and so on." Have you ever own a successful business? Go read the Emyth from Michael Gerber and study how Ray Crok (of McDonald’s ) took McDonalds to where they are today. If it is too complicated for you let me break it down, it is all about DISTRIBUTION, DISTRIBUTION, DISTRIBUTION my friend. What do you think franchisors do? Once you understand this concept and understand that 1000’s of the major companies use this method and are involved with some type of MLM you may walk a different tune.

Blog On

[sorrynotbuyingit]

why is it that every time there is a thread where someone bashes mona vie, that the mona vie nazi distributers show up and start feeding propaganda? This product is a scam. I have friends who are involved after 3 years of busting their butts listening to confrence calls, and attending conventions they aren't making any money.

I'm so tired of the constant harrassment to join mona vie or die poor and young that I now avoid these friends at all costs. The rest of the group of friends we hung areound with do the same to them. It's really sad what mona vie has done to these people.

[Zheka]

Sorrynotbuyingit, how do you know this product is a scam? Answer from your side, not from your friends side.
Just interested in your own opinion.

[Selena]

I have just sat here and read many of the good and bad comments about this product and in every instance I have yet to read ANYTHING about why people WANT to drink this juice. Every comment has been about making money!!! People who want a natural way to improve their health drink such products in the hope that it will reduce, if not eliminate the use of prescription drugs, which by the way are killing Americans. As far as going to a company website, you will NEVER get the truth from anyone that makes a product. I have a dear friend recovering from ovarian cancer and she is doing everything she can to survive and all I see here is more of the selfish, self centered, what's in it for me attitude that is destroying our country.

[Mike]

If this juice company really wanted to help people, they'd put in an additive that would make your abdomen transparent so that you people could see where you're going!Or how about a berry that helps you remember all the other scams that have come and gone in your lifetime? Seems to me, if these pyramid schemes worked (and you can call them whatever you like, but if it quacks like a duck...), then the number of wealthy people in the world should be significantly higher than 1% by now!
I think the acai berry is wonderful, and will use it, but that doesn't make this a good business plan. There are many other sources for acai (most even tell you the pecentage you're getting and are way cheaper). I, too, love to get a good night's sleep, but not at the expense of waking up with my head up my ass.

[sorrynotbuyingit]

Zheka I'm extrememly wary of MLM's not my cup of tea. I don't feel that pressuring my friends into anything is very productive to a relationship with them.

As far as my side of it, it's just what I've witnessed the three of them going through. I guess I don't need to stick my finger in an electrical socket when I've already witnessed whats happened to others.

[Zheka]

OK. Thank you for your honesty. And I am sorry about your friend Selena, honestly.
Hope she'll come around.

That is all. Good bye.

[Julie]

Really people, she said help. So an apple a day keeps the doctor away is wrong? Monavie has 18 "fruits" plus the Acai berry in it's blend. Fruits, as anyone with any sense knows, aids in the well being of everyone! What she is saying is true. Fruits are found to be helpful in the wellbeing of anyone who eats or drinks them! OUR bodies need fruits. Fruits are packed with all kinds of antioxidants. Antioxdidants are , according to our own FDA "helpful" in the fight for all kinds of deseases! Monavie has 19 fruits in one very tasteful blend. Try it, then complain!

[This is exactly why I dont get envolved with.....]

This is exactly why I dont get envolved with vitamins for a business. Its to easy for someone to say you made the claim. You can have tesimonials all you want but it doesnt change the liabilty perspective! If your unsure, try something else. How many people actually get rich doing this kind of business anyway. I will tell you; only 3% If you want to do something and dont want to pay to start; try this. www.mypowermall.com/Biz/Home/8341

[Concerned Citizen]

Does anybody remember the days of magical elixirs? I guess its true that history always repeats itself. We are such pitiful creatures in this way don't you think? Do a little research people. This is why our country is run by a bunch of aristocrats who kill our citizens for financial gain; because we vote them into office without researching their credentials. Have any of you looked into the backgrounds of the owners? Do they have shady pasts? Have they lost lawsuits before? Do they have legitimate educations and histories? Have you checked out the competition thoroughly? These kinds of things will help you make informed decisions concerning the company. Good luck to anyone who believes in a magical elixir.

[Concerned Citizen]

PS. A balanced diet and exercise will always be the answer to sustained health and happiness. Get off your asses and punch your card my fellow lazy americans!

[jc vitte]

All MLMs make their money the same way, selling to their downline. None of them are concerned with actually selling the product to consumers, they only want to sign up dealers or distributors. I am a "ozone air purifying" machine dealer(only so I can get repair parts BTW). I recieve multiple emails nearly everyday telling me the same thing; sign up dealers. There is an old saying, " if it were that easy, everyone would do it". Never is that so true when dealing with a MLM. If you start looking at how much product is moved to dealers as start up and demos, and compare it to how much is actually going to people who aren't dealers, I think the truth will be evident. As for all of you just waiting to tell me how "wrong" I am, don't bother, I am not interested in how well you have studied the material, or how well you can quote the company line. Once you exhaust your friends and family, most (this blog quoted 97%), wont have anyone to sell to and will fold. That isn't not working your business, that is human nature. And that is what MLMs count on happening. This isn't an indictment against Mona Vie, just against the people who start MLMs and the people at the bottom who are foolish enough to think they can get rich selling "magic beans" or whatever. Concerned Citizen is spot on: 100% right.

[PeaceOut]

If this MonaVie product was so wonderful as to stand on its own then it should do well enough in the fair market. Distribute it to Wal-Mart or Walgreen's or Saks or friggin' wherever for all I care. If it is so wonderful then you wouldn't have to rely on the half-baked testimonials and high-pressure sales pitches of so-called friends. This flash in the pan will die soon enough and the few at the top will be moving on to the next scheme or retired in a foreign country where they can't be touched. The rest of the suckers will be left with a bunch of bottles of juice and over-priced slick brochures and debt.

[Concerned Citizen]

Its amazing what a little research will do for your brain. Monavie has a few problems: the acai is the only fruit which is 100% organic, which means pesticides and herbicides are used on all of the other fruit contents. Secondly, they use sodium benzoate (linked to benzene - which is linked to cancer) to keep it. This basically means that the free radicals that it is supposed to be fighting is also being injected with the potion. Nice. The amount of acai is not noted anywhere that I have found, but it does have a good ORAC value, although mostly wasted as the body can only injest a certain number daily. I did however find a company (Amazon Thunder) which has FDA regulated factories in the Amazon and sells just the acai juice or concentrate alone. It claims to be pure and 100% organic with only 1 ounce of concord grape juice for flavoring purposes. It costs a fraction of the price of Monavie which means you can go out and buy organic fruit (which will have a much higher fiber content) and make wonderful smoothies of your own instead for half the price (to your flavor and liking.) See how easy it is to be an Independent instead of a two-party dumbass. Now try these same concepts of research on you next election ballot my fellow lazy americans!

[Korey King]

Whoa!

Man. Social networking.

What's funny is even though people are not only bashing a company and a product, but bashing other people here (on a personal level, us lazy americans and all), the bashers' claims are probably gonna be taken seriously.

Yep. But hey.

Nobody gets rich doing these things anyway.

Nobody has written hundreds of personal testimonials scattered around the 'net about how this stuff has helped them.

Nobody has ever broken down and cried to their juice peddler about how this stuff has helped them.

Nobody brings themselves from dead broke, suicidal and worthless to society to being independently wealthy and owning a thriving enterprise by not only providing some tasty snake oil to a hungry crowd, but also deviously manipulating them into doing the same by making them believe they can build a better life for themselves, then showing them how it can be done.

Nobody. Nobody at all.

And if anyone did, man.
We'd just have to take 'em out back and shoot 'em.

'cause nobody wants that kind of shit 'round here, mmhmm.

Hey Ty, you're on Google's page 1 for MonaVie bro. Congrats.

[Concerned Citizen]

Wow Korey! That's got to be the most unsupported and lackluster attempt to divert from fact to fiction that I've ever seen. Are you actually using "testimonials" as the basis of your argument? Pretty weak. Also, saying "lazy americans" is not a bashing on a personal level, but what would you know right? Now, if I said, "Korey King is lazy and stupid and doesn't have any facts to support his claims"...that would be a personal attack. I digress.

You're right about 1 thing though: everyone gets rich off of pyramid schemes that sell snake oil! It's funny how you make all these claims, but never once address the issues with facts. What about the sodium benzoate found in the product; what about all the other fruits that aren't "organic?" That's one of those Magic Elixir salesman tricks I bet..."look at the monkey" kind of switcheroo. Tell me this big dog, (and by only using facts:) how many distributors are there at Monavie and what's the percentage of them that make over a poverty level yearly income from this amazing money-making enterprise? Bet you can't or won't because that would entail actually 1) having to do research and 2) facing reality.

And if you think that an 18% voter turnout for national elections warrants a diligent and caring American society, then hey man, more power to you. See you at the polls.

Making money on pyramid schemes is a despicable way of feeding off of the ignorant. This concept directly refutes your claim that this is some kind of opportunity to seize the day Korey. You build a better life by learning a skill and going to work. And, of course, by eating the 5-10 servings of fruit daily as recommended by the USDA.

[jc vitte]

Isn't it amazing that all the chest thumping dies down when the facts are being argued, instead of the claims. I have seen my own family try to extend someone's life (who had brain cancer), by spending extremly large amounts of money to buy Noni juice because they read a testimonial that it had caused someones cancer to go into remission. That is what drives these companies; desperation, fear and greed. They market to the people who believe "testimonials". Turn on the tv and watch the tele-evalgelists who do the same thing. Play off peoples fears and misconceptions, thats the American dream! Get rich quick! I hope there is a special place waiting for all these con-men, and I hope they all burn if there is a hell, because that is where they all belong. Like a previous poster said, if the product is so good, put it on the open market. Thats when you find out how much the "distribution, distribution, distribution" model works. McDonlalds did so well because they delivered what they said they would, for better or worse. MLMs keep their product hidden, except for the exposure their dealers provide, because thats part of the allure, its a big secret, get in early before everyone does, etc. Speaking of people crying about a product, would you like to hear about the lady who came to me to try to sell her "dealer start up pack" of air purifiers she had invested over $2K in, when she realized that everyone she knew was a dealer and nobody was selling anything to anyone, and there was no longer potential for new contacts, unless of course she started advertising which others already were. I have listened to the tapes and cd's. Its like I said, its all about building your "downline", which is a word that when you hear it, you should run as fast as you can the other way.

[Korey King]

Yep.

Absolutely right guys.

What should I do?

Can I learn the skills to punch a clock from you sir?

Will you teach me personally, or should I build a better life by paying $100,000 for a piece of paper with no guarantees that I'll even find a job to build someone else's business?

Does it pay well to hover around blogs and inject negativity into the social bloodstream? Making broad generalizations and incorrect assumptions about a company's product because of other MLMs that have done nothing but take advantage of people's desire to live financially free? Being a voice of opposition without giving a constructive alternative?

Sign me up brother.
That sounds incredibly rewarding.

No doubt - many see MLM as a lottery ticket. Get rich quick. Which is why few ever see any profit at all. Hey look, a confession. Ya'll are good.

Yep. It's not a secret though.

This is business.
Not everyone is ready for that responsibility.
Some are.

And if you feel better by robbing the few who are ready to take control of their life and connect with someone who can show them how to not only grow a successful business, but grow themselves, then, yep. Keep on keepin' on with the propaganda fellas.

(but he's not addressing the FACTS!)

Don't need to.

See, I don't look for ways to drive home misinformed and unfounded points about preservatives and the networking business model by taking advantage of people's attempts to help others.

I trust that most distributors will communicate the product and opportunity well enough (overall anyway), and that potential customers can see through the smokescreen you guys are throwing up. Current customers don't have this problem - they know the value of the product personally.

But I'll do a little dance for you this one time:

"Sodium Benzoate is the preservative used in MonaVie. Once the bottle is opened, the fruit mixture would be an ideal medium for pathological organisms were it not for an insignificant and harmless addition of 0.1% sodium benzoate. Foods containing this preservative are much healthier than non-preservative foods since harmful microorganism growth are inhibited, food oxidation is prevented, and food nutrients are preserved. Sodium benzoate is completely out of the system within ten hours of consumption. The limit of sodium benzoate in foods is not because of its toxicity or potential ill effects; rather, it is a taste issue -- levels higher than 0.1% will leave an unacceptable aftertaste."

I'm done here. Feel free to twist and tear apart my words and use them to inflate yourselves and your opinions. Ya'll are obviously good at that, and I'd hope it's a skill that pays you well.

Man. I feel so dirty now.
Flinging poop usually ain't my bag, baby.

Oh well. Look at the monkey.
http://images.jupiterimages.com/common/detail/37/95/23359537.jpg

[Concerned Citizen]

The difference between you and I is that I am not trying to sell anything to anyone here. Why do you consider facts a smokescreen? I have my opinions and there is nothing wrong with honest discussion as both sides may learn something. You appear to be defensive and that pretty much speaks for itself. Honestly, I don't really care who becomes a millionaire from this as it won't affect my life one iota. I have a friend who tried to sell this stuff to me and so I researched it and found out all of these problems that are associated with it. I am trying to share that with you and anyone concerned to know the facts.

Monavie appears to be (compared with other 100% organic products) an overpriced fruit drink with unknown amounts of acai (which is the meat of the product) and with numerous additives. In your defense, it has a high ORAC value, but what good is fighting free radicals with free radicals?

I appreciate your comments though because you just keep supporting my argument each time you write. I hope you do respond and continue to help support us. You obviously don't have one of those $100K pieces of paper, because you would have learned how to research if you had. You regurgitate the corporate line word for word concerning sodium benzoate, yet still not addressing that it is an "additive" which has been linked to "cancer" in clinical studies. Why are other companies able to deliver their products with none in them? You can get pure 100% acai juice or freeze dried powder for a fraction of the cost of this stuff...why? When you tout something as a magical elixir, shouldn't it be pure and head and shoulders above the rest?

Not surprisingly, and again, you have left out the concerns that the product is not 100% organic, which means there's trace pesticides and herbicides. At those prices ($120+/month,) shouldn't we at least get 100% organic juices? I'm sure that the only reason the acai is 100% organic is because it grows naturally and is already established. But what about the pomegranate and pear, etc? Where do they get these processed juices? China? Where there are no FDA regulations? Who knows? Monavie certainly won't tell us now will they? Why not?

But I don't want to squash the dreams of others. The pearly gates are open for all and I won't get in your way to salvation and all those that your bringing down the path. You act like your the next Messiah affording all things good to the poor and destitute and we're over here like Satan trying to bring everyone down to the fiery pits of Hell. But actually, we are just spreading the truth and our real concerns associated with this product. Fairly simple.

This really should be constructive conversation, but you don't have anything constructive to say. You just keep trying to put us down as bad and negative people. You are that wolf in lambskin aren't you? Only you have something to gain here, not us naysayers. You should feel dirty and the poo is all over you, but not because I slung it. Look around; you're knee deep in it because of you. Try water; it's the real deal. And if you wash your mouth out with it, you may be able to dilute the sodium benzoate that was left by your last swig of Monavie.

[ibofightback]

I got prospected by a 4Life distributor this week. They went on and on about how their product cures cancer .... sigh .....

[findingoutfirsthand]

I went to a 'meeting' last night. All I have to say is that my husband, who has been in construction for 25yrs, is in extreme pain most of the time. All of his joints are arthritic and the pain meds he takes only dull things a bit. He doesn't sleep well (even with sleep meds) and his handfull of meds twice daily upsets his stomach also.

Luckily, I have no real health issues so I'm not going to be drinking it (unless it REALLY helps him...then I may just because)
He will be trying the juice (not the biz) and if it does indeed help him I will be singing its praises from the rooftops!

The 'meeting' I went to was given by a VERY well respected home builder from our area. One that my husband has worked with. He is not someone who wants to damage his reputation as a business man by becoming a 'snake oil' salesman. He sells it because it is helping HIM.

THAT IS THE ONLY reason I went. I do NOT enjoy sales seminars in ANY way and generally avoid them like the plague. My husband works EXTREMELY hard for our money and I do my very best to not squander it.

I didn't sign up for anything, I am being given a bottle to give to my husband. I will post in a week and let you know if it is helping him at all. How's that?

As for many of the other concerns (price, preservatives, pesticides...), what isn't overpriced and full of preservatives and pesticides in America. Watch the news and read the paper....even the term 'organic' can't be the only criteria used in determining health worthiness.

I won't discount anything that may help my husband (and then maybe other family members with major issues). My husband is the lab rat (he's well insured...hahahaha) and I won't waste money on anything that does not make a difference in HIS quality of life. So, see you in a week with an update!

[Mike]

Most insightful arguments there, Korey!
You're obviously a master debater

[Chuck]

I myself used to take MonaVie. A pretty good product, I think, but there are others out there with a much larger concentration of Acai.
The best deals I have found concerning Acai and Mangosteen formulations are from the Vitamin Shoppe, highly recommended.

Note, though, Acai products perish rapidly.
Further, it appears that the berry itself will be available in health food stores by itself (just like grapes and blueberries).

[MonaVie_Referee]

I would encourage anyone interested about MonaVie to go to the source - monavie.com or monavieonthemove.com

If you have questions about the product, ask the source: productquestions@monavie.com

If you have questions about the business, ask the source: distributorsupport@monavie.com

No one distributor of MonaVie knows more or has more resources available at his fingertips than the entire company of MonaVie so why not take advantage of that?

Just my two cents.

[sorrynotbuyingit]

Yes go to the mona vie site for re-education you doubters!!!!

Korey I bet on average that those holding the $100,000.00 pieces of paper contibute more to society and make more money.

I'm sorry but get rich quick schemes aren't my cup of tea. I can't name one person whom I know that gained wealth without working for it unless they were up to something less than honest.

[Mike]

Say what you want drink what you want. I drink Monavie I have energy I haven't had in years. My Blood pressure went from 152/85 to 112/68 while only drinking Monavie for Two months. I have terminal Cancer and was turning down hill bad when my best friend gave me a bottle then gave me a case for my birthday stating drink this I want you to be around awhile. I get infusions every 28 days. They usually cause severe pain and are de-abillitating I usually would look like Egor or something before I could get home. I now have no pain from the infusions and I feel good enough to do anything I want after. So look up your statistics drink whatever fad drijnk suites your fancy. I KNOW WHAT WORKS FOR ME

[Zheka]

I thought that I would not engage into this again.

But I can't read this and see how people bashing themselves left and right over here with Anti - MonaVie and Anti Multi - Marketing companies.

Get a grip on yourselves.

Distributors, educate yourself enough about what you are distributing and tell people like it is.

Doubters, you can continue doubting, and continue popping those death pills (so that you can take another pill to kill the side effects of the one you just took). Find yourself a holistic doctor and go natural alternatives. If it is not MonaVie, go with something else, other than pills. You owe it to yourselves and let your body hill itself with less pills as possible.

[Zheka]

Correction to my wording. Let your body heal itself (*hill :) don't know where that came from)

[Eddie Ray]

The owners of the company is all ex-Am Way people.

[Zheka]

And the problem with it is? Mr. Ray.

[Kelly]

Wow, this is interesting. First of all for those of you that are failing with this particular form of business I am wondering if you have any business sense? Not to be negative, but this does take work as with any form of business. Some are different from others. I personally suck at mlm, but have succeeded in real estate, a online business and a plumbing company. Anyone who says this particular company is no good because only 1% make it need to realize that no matter what business you get into only about 1% make it. This is about mind set, goal setting, strong work ethics, drive, sales, money management, and marketing. Those that are upset because they have lost a couple of years of work and lost a little bit of money need to look at the people who go out and spend millions on a new business venture and then fail. Funny though, those people don't complain, they learn from the failure then move onto their next venture, generally from what they learned they become successful the next time around. So if you have spent years with this mlm company and have not succeeded try a different form of business, but remember what worked for you and what did not. I will take a guess that what did not work was their sales ability and drive.
Don't blame this one because you failed. If someone else can succeed then anyone can, but you may need to develop the skills of that person who is succeeding.
Good Luck

[Larry]

whew....take it easy everyone. It's just juice. It's not the most expensive thing to every hit the market. It's just juice....it's not hurting anyone. It's a whole food fruit juice...period. It's nutritional....period.

As far as MLM's, easy simba's!! If you feel you're getting raked over the coals by this mlm, go back to your commercialized versions and get racked there. What is the difference?

[kelly]

I remember when I was young and seen MLM as the way out of the rat race. Tried a couple of them and could not make it, but found I could make it in other types of business. But I still needed to learn a lot to have any success. I feel that for me the reason I could do one and not the other was belief in the product. You can not approach someone without believing in yourself and with mlm how do you talk to someone about making a million a year when you only make a buck a month? But if you want to start another business that involves having people call you for your products and services then all you need is to market to as many people as you can. It is still hard, but I find it is easier than mlm. I have an ex-girlfriend that just hit the $500,000 a year mark in goji juice. That's great for her, but I could still not do that. So realize where your strengths are and move into that direction.

[JayP]

I like the debate on this post. Some strong arguments. My wife signed up for MonaVie only as a drinker and not an active distributor. It started to bother me that someone had our credit card and was auto-shipping (and billing) a product we could get on EBay for much less. We had a thermonuclear dispute about it because I didn't like the monthly autocharge and I detest any MLM operation. My cousin-once -removed lost like $100K and his family's respect and all communication with his parents because he wasted 3 years of his life chasing an MLM fantasy.

I do sample the MonaVie every other day. It does make me regular -that's it. Buy it on EBay if you like it and otherwise forget about it. My cousin's wife is a total goner on this cult and it is sad. She will likely waste months to years of her life pushing MonaVie and then hate me for saying I told you so.

[MonaVieporVida]

She can say MonaVie has the most powerful anti-ox on the market because they do. Rated on the ORAC scale, the OPTI-ACAI which comes in freeze dried form has a rating of 1027. Compared to the cranberry which boasts a rating of 93. If you can post the level of ORAC units from mangosteen or any other juice, then step up. Till then, check the records. OPTI-ACAI is #1, hands down.

But you are all correct in what she is claiming. That is wrong. What she CAN say, is that all the constituents in the product, all 19 fruits, have been scientifically tested and have shown anti-inflammatory capabilities. This stuff makes complete sense if your not the average complacent, apathetic american. Wake up everyone, lets get healthy and not perpetuate illness with supporting the evil pharmaceutical companies.

God Bless.

[MonaVieporVida]

Wow, now that I read concernedcitizen comments, it makes me wonder what hes smoking...

Why should Amazon Thunder have to have an FDA regulated factory if they are just producing fruit? Last time I checked...fruit is not a drug so it should not have to be regulated by the FDA.

Do These other products and powders you tout keep the fatty acids from the fruits in their powders or concentrates, or do they use specific processes to remove them?

Answer that question and you will see what separates MonaVie from the rest of the products.

And you seem to harp on the non Organic side... Obviously it's going to be hard to get anti-oxidant rich juices that are all organic. Wolfberry grows in China and they have no Organic classifications. Find a new argument, that one has many holes.

"Does anybody remember the days of magical elixirs? I guess its true that history always repeats itself. We are such pitiful creatures in this way don't you think? Do a little research people. This is why our country is run by a bunch of aristocrats who kill our citizens for financial gain; because we vote them into office without researching their credentials. Have any of you looked into the backgrounds of the owners? Do they have shady pasts? Have they lost lawsuits before? Do they have legitimate educations and histories? Have you checked out the competition thoroughly? These kinds of things will help you make informed decisions concerning the company. Good luck to anyone who believes in a magical elixir."

You sir, have obviously not done your research on MonaVie, so please, please keep talking like a blathering idiot. It amuses me as I am sure more than a few people on this site. I can only entertain what ridiculous notions you may try and conjur up in your next argument. Good Luck concernedidiot.

[Ty]

Of course she can say whatever she wants, it doesn't mean she is right or legal.

The biotech product from Univera called Ageless Xtra shows an ORAC level of 4512 per concentrated ounce. Meaning that a person would have to drink 4 oz. of MonaVie to equal the anti-oxidant levels of 1 oz of Ageless Xtra.

I don't know about you, but if the products have a similar cost and you have to drink 4 times the amount of one to get he same benefit, something is wrong.

The tests were conducted by Brunswick labs in Massachusetts, an independent lab.

MonaVie is a good juice with glucosamine added to it. Ageless Xtra is a biotech product the is scientifically proven to improve energy, support mental clarity, relieve stress and improve joint comfort and flexibility.

Let's have some fun. Go to my web site, http://www.whyxtra.com and request a sample. If you include your MonaVie ID number in the comments, I'll give you a 3 days supply to try it for yourself, you must also include your phone number so that I can see how you liked it after the 3 day trial.

[MonaVieporVida]

Interesting, the more I read, the more I find that people dont get the idea behind fruits.

Doctors tell us we need now 5-9 servings of fruit a day.

Why? Because in the pigmentation, the skin and flesh of the fruits is where their immune system is contained, also called phytonutrients. Imagine supplanting a vast array of colors (anti-oxidants and phytonutrients) on a daily basis that is unrivaled by any other product.

Insert MonaVie. 19 fruits blended and packaged beautifully. Find me a more simplified way of getting what you need on a daily basis concerning fruits and vitamins, glucosamine and esterified fatty acids... Etc. Etc...

You can't.

[MonaVieporVida]

Ty...

AgelessXtra and that company has 21 different products. Maybe more, who knows how many pills the parent company has come up with.

But what I thought was amazing, is what most of the products contained, were also constituents in my product as well. Only I don't need 21 different varieties, I only need one bottle.

Acai is the next generation folks.

Period.

[Ty]

I'm talking about one product....Ageless Xtra.

It's not a pill, it is a liquid and you would have to drink 4 oz. of MonaVie to equal 1 oz. of Ageless Xtra when it comes to ORAC (anti-oxidants).

I haven't even mentioned the clinical trials related to energy and joint comfort.

I have to wonder why it takes 4 times that amount of the "next generation" to equal the Xtra product.

[LCS]

What attracted me to MonaVie was the humanitarian efforts in Brazil before I even took a sip. Since I have started drinking it, I have noticed more energy, period.

I enjoy it and I've compared it in pricing to Xango and Noni... it's 1.50 more than Xango, 3.00 less than Noni per bottle. Everybody's in it for what their palette likes... mine likes MonaVie, and I'm going to Brazil next year for the M.O.R.E. project.

Whether I'm being scammed or not, I'll let God handle it in the end. My heart and mind are in the right place. I'm trying to be successful and give back to those who are in need.

Keep up the Good Effots to all of you Networking Professionals! We CAN be free from being leveraged by others. May we all find the vehicle to do so!

LCS

[MonaVieporVida]

Amen to that LCS.

I plan on a trip to Brazil as soon as I attain a few certain goals.

And as far as energy... I bounce of every single wall when I wake up in the mornings, and I don't use energy drinks anymore. Whereas I used to drink at least 2 a day.

See you at the top LCS.

[Imposter]

Good Job Kelly. I wholeheartedly agree and your points are irrefutable.

[juicemom]

I am a scientist, I've studies inflammatory diseases for over 15 yrs. Anything good you can do for your body is worth it...whether it comes in a 2oz shot or sittin' down to an entire watermelon if you can stomach it. It's all a matter of taste, and what value you put to your health. Everything said about anti-oxidants is true. MonaVie just has a little bit more balance and provides more of a wide spectrum approach... it hits more than just the "ORAC" scale, as well as providing joint support. It really is a perfect product. Just believe in the product, there are plenty of people out there that need it, are looking for it, and will appreciate it when you share it with them.

[nikki]

I am new to mona-vie.I was reading some of the comments and I am totally confused. When I start to introduce Mona-vie to new people what am I supposed to say it does? If i can't use the words "help, or cure" what am i supposed to use? I know it doesn't cure anything, nothing does. But isn't it supposed to help people feel better?

[MsMonaVie.com]

MonaVie is the best thing since sliced bread. I started using the product and all my aches and pains have gone away.

http://www.MsMonaVie.com

[JayP]

All you Monavie distributors better listen up. You should get out of this business now and stop trying to distribute Monavie because as product "drinkers" start to discover that it is much cheaper on EBay they will switch to buying it there. There is absolutely no way to stop the eBay selling and it is entirely legal. I'd give this network marketing scheme 6-12 months before it goes POP! Beware that the top level "diamond" distributors get much of their compensation by selling motivational and marketing materials and not the actual product.

[DonnaT]

I was curious as to how Monavie could be sold on e-bay so I went to ebay and sure enough, there it was, for sale at an unusually low price. I am not sure how one could buy Monavie as a distributor or a customer and then re-sell it at such a low price, they would lose money! As I continued to search I found the following message posted on e-bay (I copied and pasted this directly from the e-bay site)
Company policy strictly prohibits distributors from selling product via online auctions (Section III, Paragraph K). Despite this prohibition, some MonaVie distributors attempt to sell through this method. Often we find it is the brand new distributor who was simply not aware of the policy and once we bring the matter to their attention, they are more than willing to comply. With such a rapid growing distributor base, we address this issue with dozens of new distributors on a daily basis.

Our standard operating procedure calls for a warning/education letter on the first offense. If the distributor quickly complies, the matter is considered closed and we take no further action. There are however, some cases where the distributor is not willing to comply with our request. These situations are dealt with by placing their account and commissions on hold until they choose to comply and then imposing disciplinary action. Should we find our self in a situation where we have a second offense, it is reviewed by the Distributor Conduct Review Committee and sent for termination.

In order to help combat the problem we added a paragraph in the Welcome Letter addressing eBay and other online auction sites. We also ask that all leaders, like yourself, please educate your downline and new recruits on the company’s policies. We have found most new distributors simply do not understand what is and is not appropriate.

Thank you for your hard work and dedication. We truly appreciate all the time, effort and energy you have devoted into making this a very successful opportunity.

Please contact Distributor Support with further questions.

Kind Regards,

Jill
Online Support
MonaVie Distributor Support
(866) 217-8455 phone
(801) 748-3202 fax

Hmmmm, it seems some people are not playing by the rules, and they really don't understand good business practices.

[Ty]

Two things are probably with the stuff on eBay...

More than likely someone is "garage qualifying" by purchasing more bottles of MonaVie than they can use or sell.

or

Someone has left MonaVie and has a bunch of extra bottles that they no longer need.

[Zheka]

Hello JayP.

Thank you for the advice. But, No....thanks.

It seems that you do not understand the business side of it (why it is not the point to sell this at on-line auctions).

As for the rest of you doubters....

I can't wait to prove all of you, on how wrong you are about this product and company going under. Just wait....I am on my way to get the health, and then the wealth that you only dream about.

Take it as a scheme, or what ever you want. As for me and my wife, this product is the best thing that ever happened to us physically.

This is the best, and most honest "scheme" that we ever got involved in.

MONAVIE FOR LIFE.

That is it.

I guess you'll see me selling Monavie support tools someday JayP. (I'd say why not....they worked for me).

[DonnaT]

Chemistry Query:

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Re: How toxic is sodium benzoate?
Date: Mon Sep 18 20:29:47 2000
Posted By: Gil Stoewsand, Faculty, Food Science & Technology, Cornell University
Area of science: Chemistry
ID: 966712600.Ch
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message:

Sodium benzoate is a very widespread food preservative used much under 0.1%
in many foods from soup to cereals. The considerable time between the
production and the consumption of food today makes some use of
preservatives necessary in order to prevent spoilage and undersirable
alterations in color, flavor, or nutrients. Degradation pathways for
benzoic acid (produced in the body from the sodium salt) have been studied
in detail and have shown the harmlessness of this substance: 75-80% is
excreted within 6 hours, and the total dose leaves the body within about 10
hours. It does not cause cancer. The limit of sodium benzoate in foods is
not because of its toxicity, but at levels higher than 0.1% will leave an
unacceptable aftertaste. Foods containing this preservative are much
healthier than non-preservative foods since harmfull microorganism growth
is inhibited, food oxidation is prevented, and food nutrients are preserved.

Chronic toxicities were examined in rats fed diets containing up to
a total of 1%. After 4 generations there were no changes in normal
patterns of growth, reproduction, lactation and no morphological
abnomalities of organs. Acute toxicity studies, where one large dose of
sodium benzoate is given to animals, showed no lethal effects until 2
grams per kg. body wt. was administered. One could not eat enough foods
containing sodium benzoate to even get 0.002% of this amount!
Limits of sodium benzoate in foods is not because of toxicity, but
it will impart a taste that will make some foods unacceptable. This is a
very non-toxic compound and foods containing presevatives are usually much
healthier since harmful microorganism growth is inhibited, oxidation is
checked, and nutrients, natural or added, are saved.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Moderator's note: You can find out more about the hazards associated with
different compounds on their Material Safety Data Sheet. Online versions are
available in the chemistry section of our MadSci Library for more information on Chemistry.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

[DonnaT]

Here is more research on pesticides which seem to be in question in Mona Vie products. I read comments, I search for answers.
FDA collects and analyzes almost 10,000 samples of fruits and vegetables yearly for pesticide residues. Since 1987, when the agency began reporting the results of its monitoring program annually, more than 99 percent of domestic fruit and vegetable samples and more than 95 percent of imported samples have been found free of illegal pesticide residues or had low-level residues that fell within established tolerances. Violations mainly occurred because low-level pesticide residues not approved for a particular product were identified in that food. However, most of the pesticides causing these violations were approved for use on many other foods, Jones said.
"Most violations are not due to the presence of banned pesticides, such as DDT, chlordane and heptachlor, or to very high levels of residues," he said. "Most are due to very low-level residues on the wrong commodity."
So, FDA's position is that the U.S. fruit and vegetable supply does not contain excessive pesticide residues and that the benefits of eating fresh produce far exceeds any risk fro

[JayP]

I don't mind repeating myself 1000 times about this. The EBay sales channel will destroy this MLM business model quickly and efficiently. I know people who are distributors and they are fast losing their "drinker" customers to the cheaper EBay supply. Again, there is absolutely no way to stop it and even very difficult to figure out who is doing it. I'm sure Monavie management is somewhat apathetic about it given the EBay channel is likely increasing volume.
Bottom line - a decent but grossly overpriced product and a flawed biz model. Don't get suck(ered) in. It will only drain your finances, your time, and ultimately, your self-respect.

[ChrisCD]

I really love this kind of dialog. It is a business folks. How much does it cost to open a McDonald's, Coldstone, Jamba Juice, etc.? It isn't get rich quick. It takes time and effort as any career or business will. There are tools. Heck, Dr. Phil sells tools. Does he make money? Sure he does. Do they help people? Sure they do. How many Wal-mart tellers have a decent chance of being VP of anything there at Wal-mart? But if someone has that dream, they can work long and hard and achieve it. Matter-of-fact, a very good friend of mine started in the trenches of MCI long ago. And guess what, he is a VP.

[Ty]

Chris,

You sound exactly like a Quixtar/Amway rep, it makes me wonder if you are affiliated with ex Amway Kingpin, Brig Hart.

[JayP]

ChrisCD,

I'm trying to understand the point you are trying to make and then I realized you don't have one. You say it's a business. It is not a business, it is a pyramid scheme. You reference legitimate franchise businesses like McDonalds and Jamba Juice. Those are real food and beverage restaurants selling direct to the public. The reason why MLM's employ word of mouth, viral and network marketing strategies is that this ensures profit (or minimizes potential losses) by pushing sales and marketing costs downstream (and forward) to the frontline sales force. Brainwashing, hype, and groupthink then play a role in convincing people that Monavie is a multipurpose elixir and panacea. Otherwise, noone in their right mind would pay $35 for a $5 bottle of concentrated fruit juice. There are comparable products at your local Vitamin Shoppe for $5-$10 or less. 99% of distributors will not be able to get past 5 or 6 hundred a month max because they are not the ones profiting off the motivational marketing and promo materials. Other "successful" reps recieve speaking and appearance fees. Self-help and confidence gurus are brought in to create an artificial, euphoric hysteria about the product at the seminars.

I ask you. What is more shameful? Getting suckered into buying this overpriced product with a monthly autocharge on your credit card? OR? Going the extra mile, setting aside your scruples, and recruiting your friends and relatives to dive into the insane abyss right behind you?

[Patrick]

JayP, so what you are saying is that businesses like Pampered Chef are illegitimate and the fact that they are owned by Berkshire Hathaway makes B.H. illegitimate?

Obviously, you are a big proponent of eBay. Is eBay a legitimate business? I think some would say not.

How many people have been ripped off on eBay with no item being delivered? Meanwhile, eBay is able to wash their hands from any responsibility and collects on every transaction.

In fact, a distributor that I sponsored and actually has a higher ranking than I do, was a former purchaser on eBay who got burned with no juice being delivered. The very fact, that he has managed to grow his organization faster and larger than mine also proves that this is not a "pyramid scheme."

No one that I work with is forced or suckered in to do anything. If all they want to do is drink, that is fine. If they want to build a business, all the better.

Say what you will JayP but I just don't understand why you even post to this blog. It doesn't seem like this is the thing for you and that's okay.

[Melissa]

I would like to extend my thanks to everyone who has supported MonaVie and Network Marketing by making comments on this blog. And I do mean everyone. When I joined MonaVie in May, there were only a few comments here. I think I found it on the second or third page when I searched Google for MonaVie. Now this page can be found on the first page, right under paid advertising - Wow!

You see, my observation is that every action we take is motivated by one of two basic emotions. (Contrary to popular opinion, emotions are not feelings; they are biological processes that encourage us to move in some way.) These are fear (fueled by insecurity which leads us to attack or defend) and love (fueled by desire which leads us to embrace). No matter which emotion motivates us, the result is the same – What we resist persists. What we focus on expands.

MonaVie may not be for everyone, but I find that it works very well for me. I am a busy person. I have a job with a corporate industry leader that will never offer me the chance of residual income – unless you count my 401K. I invest in and manage real estate – another huge commitment of time and attention, and I am growing a MonaVie business. I value my health and I would love to eat my 7-9 recommended servings of fresh fruits and vegetables each day. I would like to benefit from the fiber and other as-yet-unidentified nutrients I would consume if I did. I would like for these fruits and vegetables to contain all the nutrients they would if they were picked at their peak of ripeness (after they have had the opportunity to fully mature) and I would like these fruits and vegetables to be grown organically (not because of a fear of pesticides, but because organically grown plants grow under greater stress and therefore produce more of the nutrients that benefit me). Right now my attention is on delivering value to the world in other ways so I am grateful for MonaVie. I find it to be a convenient way for me to get a great number of these beneficial nutrients into my diet and I never feel guilt or frustration because it spoiled in the fridge before I got to it.

Since I began drinking MonaVie in May, I have noticed that I have more consistent energy through the day and I wake up in the morning feeling well-rested. The persistent aches in my ankles and my left knee have gone away. I can work all day on a renovation project and still have the energy to enjoy a swim or a walk with my husband. I think the most amazing physical change I have noticed, though, is my skin. It is incredibly soft and smooth. I have always had a hard time remembering to consistently apply moisturizers, but now my skin is getting the nutrition it needs from the inside so I don’t need to remember. In addition to this, my husband and I make it a point to enjoy our morning and evening serving of MonaVie together – which gives us the opportunity to take a few moments at the beginning and the end of the day to refocus on our true priorities.

As I said, though, MonaVie may not be for everyone. My point is that only you know if it is for you or not. Don’t let our comments influence you one way or the other. Instead, let your heart draw you toward what you want. Make your choice. Trust it.

Live Well.

[JayP]

patrick,

I had to check out Pampered Chef to see if it has an MLM sales model. Looks like it does but I don't think it requires an autoship component to participate though which makes it more legit than Monavie. More on that point later.
Noone has successfully refuted any of my valid points on this post.

Patrick you say: "The very fact, that "my friend" has managed to grow his organization faster and larger than mine also proves that this is not a "pyramid scheme."

No it does not. It just means the commissions algorithm rewards more favorably those hard workers with volume sellers whom they have recruited directly. He also must have better balanced the legs of his "tree".

Any sales model with multiple levels, legs, and having the name "tree", is a pyramid. I have logged into and viewed the "trees" and the term tree has been euphemistically substituted for the more accurate term - "pyramid".

No, this MLM or "network" marketing sales channel is not now and will never be "for me". I categorically reject any business that is built on it. Especially since most all of those businesses deceive the next round of distributors into believing that if they work hard selling the product then they will reap worthwhile reward. They will not unless they breach the inner circle of sales and management where they share in the profits from all the motivational marketing materials, registration fees, and speaking and appearance fees.

You hard working distributors will eventually give up, and likely sooner than later when you see your "trees" disintegrating and collapsing because of EBay sales cannibalization and new distributors giving up quickly. All right minded drinkers will opt-out for the much cheaper EBay channel. New distributors will
give up faster and faster as they find it is hard to hijack the credit card of right minded friends, relatives and neighbors.

Since every distributor is required to be on 2 cases of autoship a month many are buying more than they drink (if they even drink it all). 2 cases is required to maximize the commission rate if I am not mistaken. That is excessive and that is where they are not just selling product but in fact the right to distribute the product. That is a defining aspect of a pyramid scheme.

Monavie distributors ask yourselves these questions:

Do I want to try to sell a product that couldn't be sold any other way?
Do I want to make money off my ability to convince people that an unsustainable marketing system is viable?
Do I want to be known among my friends and family as a person who tried to con people with a thinly-veiled pyramid scheme.
New distributors and those considering signing up shold do yourselves one favor. Be diligent enough to poll you closest firends and relatives about their experiences with MLM. Just as most families have been impacted by cancer or debilitating disease, most have also experienced casualties as a result of MLM. The stories are ones of devastation. 3 in my family whick is otherwise very succesfull and well-educated.

[JayP]

Pardon the multiple misspellings at the end of my previous post. My passion led to haste. Plus, the kids were demanding an activity. All you parents know what I'm talking about.

I'll be back to respond to contention. You can bet your daily dose on that.

Happy 4th. At least give selling a day off today. Oh yeah, many of you can't. That is the diesease-like nature of cult indoctrination.

[thedude918]

Just wanted to add my 2 cents here...

It's amusing how the Monavie critics are dismissed as haters with too much time on their hands. Most of us HAVE tasted it, listened to the pitches and know far more than we want to about this company. We have nothing to gain but karma as we spend our valuable time trying to warn others who might be considering this "opportunity". The motivation on the opposite side? Making money of course, not to mention that most of these reps have staked their personal reputation on this product with every friend and family member in their life. It only makes sense that any attack on the product or company would feel very personal to the reps. Refusing to sign up under one of your friends becomes personal insult...

I hear lots of discussion about scientific studies regarding Monavie, but rarely hear the phrase "placebo effect". It's so powerful that all drug studies are designed to account for it in the most clinical settings. Imagine how powerful the effect can be when enhanced by testimonials from a best friend or family member? Many of the less outrageous testimonials about pain relief can easily be explained with the placebo effect.

If you want to know more about my personal experience with Monavie and why I think the people at the top are just plain evil, check out my little blog:

(blog url removed)

What a scam!

[JayP]

Finally a rational person on the same page as myself. "Thedude918" you just made my 4th. Gaining karma by warning others about the perils of this opportunity is my motivation as well. Thanks and happy 4th.

[Patrick]

It's unfortunate that the sponsor of thedude918 did not make everything clear during the enrollment process. A complete breakdown of all costs should have been disclosed. One thing I am checking is the restocking fee for warehouse orders.

Authoship is not mandatory. It is simply a convenience for distributors to remain "Active." Please see definition below from the MonaVie Back-Office:

One of the requirements to earn commissions is that Distributors remain “Active”. The best way to remain "Active" is to enroll in our Auto-Ship Program where the products you select below will be sent to you every 28 days. To earn commissions, your Auto-Ship must total a minimum of 100 pv in consumable products. An Auto-Ship of 200 pv enables you to maximize your earning potential. You may change or cancel your Auto-Ship at any time.

As far as the costs go, everyone needs to make a personal decision as to what they will spend their hard earned money on.

One thing I do know is that drinking MonaVie on a daily basis is cheaper than a lot of other popular products such as McDonalds, Starbucks, beer, etc. Believe it or not, people do purchase these items on a daily basis.

Even if someone is purchasing MonaVie for themselves (1 case every 28 days), the $39 is just about made up after your 2nd case because of the savings between wholesale and the going retail price of a case.

If one were to purchase online, the going retail rate for 1 case of MonaVie Active is $159. A distributor's cost is $130.

Now, if someone feels that they want to purchase on eBay, go ahead but they are on their own.

One thing I don't understand is JayP's confusing argument concerning the pyramid thing. In fact, it's completely inaccurate. The MonaVie business is completely legal and does not fit the definition of what the FTC defines as a pyramid scheme.

http://www.ftc.gov/bcp/conline/pubs/alerts/pyrdalrt.shtm

Commission algorithms's? I'm not sure what you mean by that. All I know is everyone has the same opportunity and you get out of it what you put into it. It's as simple as that.

[JayP]

I never said anything about illegal. Clearly the founders did just enough to finagle around the law. Nevertheless IT IS A PYRAMID. It has an upline and a downline and you HAVE to pay to participate. Getting stuck on autoship is hardly a "convenience" for the overwhelming percentage of distributors who are faltering.
It is just like any other credit card nightmare where it is hard to shut something off. You are forced to call your distributor and beg that they turn you off or reduce your order and they say anything under the sun to convince you otherwise.
There is nothing cheap about Monavie and comparing it's costs to vices like junk food, caffeine, and booze doesn't make sense.

Funny how you keep resorting to spouting the company line. Clearly you are an insider and thus far more evil than those further downline. Also funny how you disregard my main points because there is no possible way to refute them.

Here are a few mantras of truth:

MONAVIE IS A PYRAMID SCAM

NOONE LIKES SOLICITORS

CULTS ARE DANGEROUS

...and if you must have the juice then:

SAVE AT EBAY

[Jason]

Check out a company called Sambazon. You can buy their Acai products in a lot of groceries like Whole Foods, Wild Oats etc. They have a ORAC score higher that then Monavie, you can pick it up at your grocery, it's cheaper, and it's certified by the USDA. Monavie might be a great drink but making the claims that it's an Acai drink is false as that's not the number one product in the drink as it's made up of 18 or however many fruits.

[Ty]

MonaVie people...you need to pay special attention to this Mannatech lawsuit. It was the original subject of this post.

http://www.mlmblog.net/2007/07/breaking-news-t.html

[christian]

Wow, thats a long read. I thought since I am a new rep for MonaVie, but a MLM veteran, that I would chime in like some of you others. First off...MLM's are not necessarily devil cults as Mr. JP would have you believe. Many Americans make an honest living network marketing. Is it hard work...well, it can be, depends alot on the product you are marketing...just like everything else. If you are selling airconditioner units in Alaska you will probably have a hard time, get discouraged and maybe write off MLM's altogether. However, if you are marketing a more efficient and worthwile heating unit sales might boom!...(maybe thats not the best analogy). So...the product is important. and more than that, the way you market not only the product, but yourself is important.

I own my own buisness and have 9 employees. My buisness partner and I do very well, we have been blessed. I am looking into MLM's again, after having been in some others that I was less motivated, to persue an additional income stream and help some of my family, friends, and my current employees. Or at least give them the opportunity. I am still in the process of investigating MonaVie and having several members of my family as well as some close friends try the product. I have the financial means to do so and the way I look at it is the worst thing that could happen is that I gave away some fruit juice to them and they drank it.
I am also using the product myself as is my wife and son.

I have read alot online and gone to other sources for information regarding MonaVie the product and the company. Because my family and friends have only been using the product for a week, I do not feel I can comment about specific changes they may or may not be having in regards to their physical health and well being at this time, however, I do plan on posting when I know.

After initially signing up as a distributer I concluded the following. MonaVie is a fairly easy way to make sure I get the appropriate amount of fruits in my diet. Most fruit in my house goes bad before we ever eat it. I am not great at putting the most healthy things in my body most of the time. Its easy...and...i know it sounds corny, but its fun. My wife and I kinda joke about it every night when we have our "shot". I told my wife to cut back on the amount of fruit we buy at the grocery. The money we save there will obviously be consumed by the purchase of the MonaVie. We will probably spend more initially on the MonaVie than we would going to the grocery, but...taking into consideration the time it takes to pick out healthy fruit, clean it, prepare it for consumption....not really an issue for me anyway. Oh, and did I mention its fun?...

Are there cheaper alternatives...sounds like there might be. However, if you get hooked on Acai or a supplement fruit drink and feel like it helps you or someone in your circle of friends, family, employees, etc...arent you going to tell other people about it? Why not get paid to tell them, instead of making a nutritional store online successful? At bare minimal you can probably end up getting your MonaVie for free. The healthfood store isnt going to reward you for referring them customers are they?
If you decide...nahh, I dont really like it or I dont want to mess with this MonaVie stuff...dont. One of the misconceptions of MLM is that you have to get everyone you know involved...you dont. If you want to take it on as a business you need to TARGET your market. Find people you think you may be able to help and offer them the opportunity. Maybe you target some for health and convenience reasons. others you may target to help them earn a better living while at the same time building a buisness.

I have many thoughts about this MonaVie thing, but I dont want to ramble on too much, especially considering that it is really to soon to tell whether or not I will be in this for the long haul. Anyway, for those of you that are curious about MLM as a business, I would encourage you to watch this video from Tim Sales. I would especially encourage JayP since you seem to be confused as to the difference between MLM and pyramid schemes. I think if you take the time to watch it you will be enlightened. Good luck everyone.

btw..i am not in anyway affiliated with the website this video was posted on or Mr. Sales.

http://www.mlm-thewholetruth.com/brilliantcompensation.shtml

[JayP]

Mr. Christian I am certainly not confused in the least. People working in MLM pyramid schemes like Monavie are beyond confused, they are deranged and brainwashed.

I watched your video that culminates with an MLM "opportunity" squeeze page. That video is pure, manipulative propaganda from two old sellouts. I did like the part about the baby boomer trends. That was interesting. I'm now off to India to check out the Taj Mahal. I'll be in this hotel much of the time:

http://www.oberoiudaivilas.com/index.asp?leftinfo=1&leftitem=1

I'll check this post while I'm there. I have my own business in online marketing. It has gone very well and I have done it without stooping to an MLM or pyramid scheme.

[christian]

JayP,
I commend you on your success with internet marketing. Would you be willing to be more specific with what your buisness is and how you became successful at it? Most of the MLM people I have run into are willing to share what works for them and how they reached there goals. My goals with MLM is to help my family and friends develop financial freedom. Yes, the baby boomer trends part of that video is good...and true. It is how I niched my service buisness.

To me MonaVie seems like a wonderful target product for the baby boomers. Fact is, many of the distributers I have met fit this catagory. Why?....It is a trend that interests them. It is bottled very differently than other health drinks for starters...sexy,classy,rich looking. The MonaVie marketing is the same...definitely not GenX stuff. MonaVie has made this part easy for distributers because there materials are designed to attract this segment of the poplulation. BB's are also becoming more and more health conscious, as witnessed with the enormous amount of "supplements" bombarding the market right now. Feeling good and looking good are what BB's want. MonaVie...even the name is in line with the target market. And, MonaVie is not a "different product for everyone" type of MLM company. It has one product, packaged 2 different ways...simple, not desperate. By that I mean that if someone is not interested, its ok. you dont have to find another product for them to try, move on to the next individual. So many MLM's say that all of their products are superior for one reason or another...well, i agree that thats highly unlikely. But with MonaVie the company focuses on one thing....one...MonaVie. I am hopeful that it stays that way too.

Jay, I am truly sorry that your family was affected so negatively by network marketing in the past, but in my experience, it has more to do with those marketing the product than the companies themselves. For the short time I have been involved and researching MonaVie, I have been introduced to strong family units, lots of happy couples and individuals. I dont know of any worthwhile buisness opportunity out there that doesnt involve some level of risk and work. MLM's are just like other buisnesses...there are good ones, bad ones, great ones, etc. It is the responsibility of the individual getting involved to research and find out if the company fits a profile they are comfortable marketing. Corruption exists on all levels of society. With the enormous number of individuals involved in MLM, there are bound to be some that fit a less than glowing profile. A few bad apples doesnt make the entire orchard rotten though. As a businessman I am sure that makes perfect sense to you. MLM companies are not inherently evil, there is no conspiracy. Some have secrets....dont most buisnesses? Isnt that how we keep our competition guessing? MLM's may seem cult like because people live their buisness. They bring it into their social lives and there ceases to exist a separation between home and work. I liken it to a successful stock broker on wall street who is over the top passionate for what he or she is doing. They seem like freaks to most 9-5 ers. Look at yourself...if you are as successful as you seem, then you take your buisness seriously and believe strongly in what you do. Why is it that its ok for some, but not for others?

I am glad you are here, it keeps people honest and gives MLMers a glimpse into the ugly side of MLM. If you are so inclined, please continue your investigation of MonaVie specifically. I am interested in hearing the good and the bad.

Anyway....cheers, im off to get another shot of my juice...

I am not an associate of Brig Hart. I started at an environmental lab company doing data entry. After teaching myself computer program