Cristiano Ronaldo has once again found himself at the center of a heated debate, but this time, it’s not about his on-field performance but his connection to Herbalife, a health and nutrition brand that has faced its share of controversy. Recently, Ronaldo took to X to promote Herbalife’s Formula 1 meal replacement shake as a preferred breakfast option, a move that quickly grabbed the attention of his vast fanbase. However, this endorsement also faced considerable backlash, not only from skeptical followers but also from health professionals who criticized Herbalife’s products.

Most criticism came from the medical community, where a well-known doctor expressed concern over Cristiano Ronaldo’s promotion, accusing him of overlooking the ethical implications of endorsing a product associated with negative health effects. For a star of Ronaldo’s caliber who enjoys trust and admiration globally, many believe there is a duty to maintain certain ethical standards, especially regarding health.

He further added, “Because even the people you place high on a high pedestal are sometimes deprived of ethics and morality when it comes to healthcare and health literacy when money talks.” Herbalife, a company frequently criticized for its multilevel marketing approach, has a history of controversy. It has faced scrutiny and legal challenges in the past, with reports of liver injuries among users being one of the most alarming issues linked to its products.

This latest endorsement has reignited discussions about the ethical limits of celebrity endorsements. Cristiano Ronaldo, a global icon had made a brand deal with Herbalife worth $870 million. But does that influence come with the responsibility to be aware of the potential risks associated with the products he endorses? For fans who view Ronaldo as a role model, the dilemma of integrity versus profit has ignited a passionate debate.

Protein shake or just business?

The controversy surrounding Cristiano Ronaldo’s post raises questions about Herbalife’s reputation as a health brand. Herbalife promotes itself as a source of nutrition and wellness products, some experts suggest it resembles a multilevel marketing (MLM) scheme, heavily dependent on recruitment and high prices. Investigations have shown that Herbalife’s products often include low-quality protein sourced from peas and soy, along with “botanicals” that could pose health risks with regular consumption. Additionally, these products are priced at a premium, which many believe does not reflect their actual quality.

For years, Herbalife has been linked to liver-related health issues. It has a notorious reputation for having the highest documented cases of liver injuries and failures among protein supplement brands, which raises doubts about its nutritional claims. Medical professionals caution that while the brand’s formula may contain basic proteins, the botanical additives and synthetic components could heighten the risk of liver damage, particularly if used as daily meal replacements.

Despite these known dangers, Herbalife remains a favored sponsor for elite athletes, who may not fully grasp the potential risks tied to the products. Herbalife’s market cap, currently at £0.68 billion, indicates its reach and influence, yet, its reputation is continually under examination. As for Cristiano Ronaldo, fans hope he will reflect on the implications of his endorsements more thoughtfully in the future.