BioPerformance, a MLM or multi-level marketing company was founded by evangelist Lowell Mims. It was business that specialized in the sales of specialized fuel additives, which were made in the form of capsules. These additives were supposed to provide marked increases an automobile’s overall fuel efficiency levels by somehow manipulating the molecular structure of the fuel which in turn, amplifies the energy output levels.

BioPerformance, gas capsules are typically purchased through any of the company’s various independent dealers through its PESNetwork. This dealership network is allied under IBOs or Independent Business Owners. In order to become an IBO, the cost is around $29. This service provided applicants with a replicated website as well as access to purchase products at wholesale cost. The downside is that the IBOs do not make any income from business sign-ups through their portal or from associates’ product sales.

Though on the surface BioPerformance’s claims sound astounding even revolutionary, allegations of false advertising or making false claims about the effectiveness of the project have been made and backed up with research in many cases. The company’s main product, the gas capsule is documented as having no real effect whatsoever on the fuel performance. Further research has also found that the company’s claim that their capsules are non-toxic is also unsubstantiated and in fact the opposite is true since one of the main ingredients is naphthalene which is the very toxic substance used in moth balls. Escalating issues regarding both the company’s practices and the issues surrounding the product lead to BioPerformance ceasing operation in May of 2006 per a court order by the Texas Attorney General. Though the company later reopened, it is still under investigation.

Furthermore, BioPerformance went out of its way to avoid providing dissatisfied customers with refunds. Also, to avoid charge backs associated with credit card use, the company only accepted payment via money order or checks. This in itself is a hallmark of a fraudulent MLM schemes because it protects the company from accrued charge back fees.