Coca-Cola Implements Global Packaging Change

The Coca-Cola Company announces 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. The new labels seek to make it even easier for consumers worldwide to make more informed decisions 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 roll-out phase. Coca-Cola's global commitment is to have front-of-pack energy information on all products by the end of 2011.

 

"Now more than ever, people expect facts about the products they consume to be both readily available and visible," says Muhtar Kent, chairman and chief executive officer, Coca-Cola. "This global commitment is about making it easier for consumers to quickly see the calorie information for our beverages."

 

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 percent 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 (United States and Canada), will be used when providing this information. The only Coca-Cola products excluded from the policy are fountain drinks, unsweetened/unflavored waters and returnable bottles.