| The customer is always right, but possibly very stupid. That is the conclusion the New Scientist draws after noticing how companies often state the obvious when labelling everyday products. The magazine cites as an example of such dumbing-down the warning on a 500g packet of Sainsbury's peanuts -- "Contains nuts". An American airline was so concerned that passengers might not know what to do with its packets of peanuts that a printed message said: "Instructions: Open packet, eat contents." John Holland, editor of New Scientist's Feedback column, said: "In America people sue if they do something they were not warned about. That is why we had a cigarette lighter advising users not to light flame near the face." Other examples include: From America, an insect spray boasting "Kills All Insects", but adding: "Warning -- harmful to bee." From America, stickers on the wing mirrors of bikes and cars saying: "Remember -- objects seen in mirror are behind you." From Sweden, a chainsaw whose packaging warns: "Do not try to stop chain with hands." From Britain, Tesco's tiramisu dessert carries the advice "Do not turn upside down" -- on the box bottom. Marks & Spencer's bread and butter pudding warns: "Take care -- product will be hot after heating." And Rowenta, the electrical manufacturer, advises: "Do not iron clothes on body." Nytol, a mixture to help people to sleep, cautions that it "may cause drowsiness". Boots cough syrup for young children urges: "Do not drive car or operate machinery. Avoid alcoholic drinks." Translation difficulties may explain advice on a Korean kitchen knife: "Warning -- keep out of children". |