Body Science, which produces a range of Tribulus products, along with other nutritional supplements, is concerned that consumers are being misled by false claims of product potency, which it says is having a detrimental impact on user performance and could even affect drug testing results.

Body Science Director Greg Young said consumers had an expectation that they "got what they paid for" and placed considerable trust in supplement manufacturers' label and advertising claims.

"Body Science prides itself on only releasing products that are scientifically and independently tested and proven to be effective," Mr Young said.

"We are committed to providing our customers with exactly what is mentioned on a label and in our advertising. In addition, our products are tested on an ongoing basis by members of our R&D Team, which includes some of Australia's top athletes.

"Ethics is a vital part of our business, and we are keen to work with other companies in this industry to ensure the best possible products for consumers - that means products that deliver results and assist Australians improve their heath, fitness and general sense of well being."

Body Science's concerns about industry professionalism were exacerbated recently with the release of a new Tribulus product that openly made false claims about one of Body Science's most successful products, Triandrobol ™. The advertisement falsely claimed that the competing product contained a more potent Tribulus Terrestris, than Triandrobol.

Tribulus, a non-hormonal preparation of plant origin, is scientifically proven to naturally and safely boost testosterone levels, strength, endurance and recovery, as well as libido. It is used by athletes as well as the "general public" for these reasons and for the sense of well being it provides.

"All Tribulus is not created equal and consumers need to be aware of this when making their decision on which product to buy," Body Science Technical Director and herbalist James Grasso said.

"In particular, the steroidal saponin Protodioscin, considered the most important compound in the plant, is found in high, measurable levels in Triandrobol.

"In our product, each 12,500mg serve contains 215mg of Protodioscin, while the other brand contains only 100mg.

"Similarly, each serving of Triandrobol contains 60 per cent Tribulus Terrestris steroidal saponins, compared with 40 per cent to 45 per cent in the other brand.

"This means that two capsules of Triandrobol (5,375mg) is equal to 12,500mg of the other Tribulus product - despite claims that the other brand is "five times" more potent.

"Body Science is not sure where these figures came from, but we refute this claim and we are happy to provide our products for additional independent testing alongside the other brand and publish the results."

Mr Young said that Body Science is not the only company whose brand had been damaged by false claims, and he urged other ethical companies to make their concerns public.

"Australian consumers are fortunate to have so many brands and products to choose from, but not when it comes at a price," he said.

"Our customers need to know they can trust what we say about our products otherwise the whole industry may suffer."

Body Science Triandrobol is currently the subject of an additional University study. The results will be published and included on the Body Science website (www.bscbodyscience.com).

Further information about all Body Science products (including product composition) is available from the site or by contacting the company's technical support hotline on 1800 359 933 or emailing techsupport@bscbodyscience.com