The Hindu Business Line : Coca-Cola warned over nutritional claims

The Food and Drug Administration issued a warning letter to the company, objecting to the product's labeling, which describes the drink as “Diet Coke with Vitamins and Minerals.'' Regulators said the beverage does not have enough nutrients to justify th e use of the word “plus'' in its name.

According to the agency, foods labeled “plus'' must have at least 10 per cent more nutrients than comparable products. Additionally, the FDA said it is inappropriate to add extra nutrients to “snack foods such as carbonated beverages.''

In the letter dated December 10, the FDA calls on Coca-Cola to revise the drink's labeling and inform the agency of its plans within 15 days of receiving the message. The FDA posted the letter online Tuesday.

Coca-Cola said it will respond to the FDA in early January, but currently has no plans to change the label. “This does not involve any health or safety issues, and we believe the label on Diet Coke Plus complies with FDA's policies and regulations,'' sa id spokesman Scott Williamson. The company launched Diet Coke Plus in March 2007, touting it as a calorie-free soft drink with extra vitamins and minerals. According to the company's Web site, the drink contains vitamin B, zinc and magnesium. - PTI

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