Coca-Cola airs commercial addressing concerns about obesity

Coca-Cola will produce a long form television advertisement to address the issue of obesity in the US in response to concerns about Americans getting fatter according to Bevnet.  In a statement released yesterday by the software giant, the two minute ad “encourages everyone to be mindful that all calories count in managing your weight, including those in Coca-Cola products and in all foods and beverages,”.

  • two minute commercial (see it below)
  • acknowledges impact of obesity on American society
  • airs today in credible US national TV news networks
  • to be followed by second ad highlighting Coke has only 140 calories during American Idol

Coca_Cola_Logo

The company is clearly in damage control following continued negative publicity that ties soft drink consumption to health problems.  Last week, a study by the US National Institutes of Health found drinking more than four sweetened beverages a day, especially diet soft drink, could lead to a greater risk of depression.

The Coca-Cola ad, titled Coming Together, acknowledges the impact of obesity on American society but also highlights the company’s low and no-calorie product lines including Diet Coke.  According to Associated Press, the ad airs today on US national cable news channels CNN, Fox News and MSNBC – an interesting choice of a more ‘credible’ environment.

The video, titled “Coming Together,” acknowledges the impact that obesity has had on American society and highlights the company’s line of low- and no-calorie options, including Diet Coke and Dasani water. The TV spot will debut tonight on national cable news channels CNN, Fox News and MSNBC, according to the Associated Press.

“The long term health of our families and the country is at stake,” a voice in the ad says. “And as the nation’s leading beverage company, we can play an important role.”

The ad includes the following notes:

  • Of the more than 650 Coca-Cola beverages, the company currently offers more than 180 low- and no-calorie options.
  • Coca-Cola mini cans, the 7.5 oz., 90-calorie version of the regular Coca-Cola can, will be available in about 90 percent of the country by the end of 2013.
  • Coca-Cola has placed a calorie count on the front of all beverages to help consumers make informed, healthy decisions.
  • The company volunteered to store primarily waters, juices and low- and no-calorie options in elementary, middle and high schools.
  • The company has a strong affiliation with organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs of America.
  • Obesity is a problem that stems from how many calories we consume and don’t burn. This means that we must monitor not just what we drink, but also what we eat.

Coke will debut a second ad, titled “Be OK,” which will highlight the fact that its flagship cola has 140 calories. The ad, which will initially air during Fox’s “American Idol” on Jan. 16, was created in an effort to clear up consumer confusion the calorie count in the drink.

This noodlies, Sydney food blog story is sourced from Bevnet reporting.