Truth in Advertising?

I receive a fair amount of emails from various manufacturers of food related items announcing new products or various promotions. If the item is barbecue or grilling related I usually find a way of working them into a blog post.

Sometimes I get requests for me to do a product review and I received another one of these the other day. Here's the email, the names have been changed to protect the not so innocent...

Saleswoman to me

Hi Robert, I would like to send you a sample of a product called fire. Fire is a green alternative to using lighter fluid to start your fires for grilling. The product prevents dangerous flare ups and improves the overall quality of your food because there is no petroleum aftertaste.

May I send you a box to try out and possibly review for your site?

Thanks,
Saleswoman
Media Relations
PR
Saleswoman@pr.com

OK, sounds interesting even though I don't use chemical fire starters when I cook, but I know many people do. This would make a good read for you my faithful viewers. So I respond with my standard response...

brooklynq to Saleswoman

Reply

Sure I'm always interested in new products. However, please be aware that my accepting the product for review does not guarantee a favorable review. If I like it I say so, if not I say that too.

And that's where it ends. Unfortunately this happens far too often. It always amazes me that so many PR people are not willing to stand behind their product. Cowards.

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