FDA Calls Diet Coke Plus 'Misbranded'

FDA's Letter to Coca-Cola Isn't About Any Health Risks; Coca-Cola Stands By Its Label

By Miranda Hitti
WebMD Health News

Reviewed By Louise Chang, MD

Dec. 23, 2008 -- In a warning letter to Coca-Cola, the FDA says that Diet Coke Plus is "misbranded."

The FDA says that Diet Coke Plus doesn't meet the FDA's nutritional standards for the term "plus." The FDA also states that it "does not consider it appropriate to fortify snack foods such as carbonated beverages." The letter, dated Dec. 10, 2008, is posted on the FDA's web site.

Diet Coke adds niacin, vitamins B6 and B12, zinc, and magnesium.

Scott Williamson, a Coca-Cola North America spokesman, tells WebMD via email that Coca-Cola takes seriously the issues raised by the FDA and points out that "this does not involve any health or safety issues, and we believe the label on Diet Coke Plus complies with FDA policies and regulations." Williamson says Coca-Cola will provide a detailed response to the FDA in early January.

SOURCES: FDA: "Warning Letter." Email from Scott Williamson, spokesman, Coca-Cola North America.

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