ATLANTA -- The Coca-Cola Co. has announced global plans to include energy information (calories, kilocalories, kilojoules) per serving on the front of nearly all product packages in a move to increase consumers' awareness about the calorie content of its beverages. It plans to have front-of-pack energy information on all products by the end of 2011. The only Coca-Cola products excluded from the policy are fountain drinks, unsweetened/unflavored waters and returnable bottles.
The new labels seek to make it even easier for consumers worldwide to make more informed decisions [image-nocss] about the beverages they drink based on their own individual taste preferences and nutritional needs. The company already has successfully rolled out front-of-pack energy labeling throughout Europe and Australia with Mexico and the United States currently in rollout phase.
"Coca-Cola is the world's most valuable brand, and with that comes a leadership responsibility," said Muhtar Kent, chairman and CEO. "Now more than ever, people expect facts about the products they consume to be both readily available and visible. This global commitment is about making it easier for consumers to quickly see the calorie information for our beverages."
Research shows that front-of-pack energy information is an important tool in helping people balance their overall dietary intake and physical activity, the company said. In the United States, the new labeling replicates information that is located in the Nutrition Facts box on the side panel of Coca-Cola products, making it easier for consumers to see it at a glance.
The new labeling will show calories, kilocalories or kilojoules per serving on nearly all Coca-Cola beverages, including all sparkling beverages, teas, energy drinks, flavored water beverages, juices and juice drinks. According to local regulations, label information may also include percentage Daily Guidance Indicators to show how the quantities of select nutrients fit into the national or regional dietary guidelines. Nationally appropriate terms, such as Guideline Daily Amounts (EU) and Daily Values (US and Canada), will be used when providing this information.
The new labeling and the broad portfolio of Coca-Cola products are complemented by a wide range of Coca-Cola-supported programs around the world that promote nutrition education and encourage physical activity among people of all ages.
Atlanta-based Coca-Cola's portfolio includes Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, POWERADE, Minute Maid and Georgia Coffee.
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