Spring Break
Cola Revolution
Coca-Cola, PepsiCo to introduce healthier, fortified beverages
Rebekah Hood
Issue date: 4/18/07 Section: Features
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The idea of a healthy soda may seem like an oxymoron for some, but Coca-Cola and PepsiCo are working to change this perception.
The two global companies, whose original formulas were both created in the late 19th century, are now introducing carbonated drinks promoted as "sparkling beverages." These new beverages are fortified with vitamins and minerals, according to an article in the New York Times on March 7.
This month, Coca-Cola is introducing Diet Coke Plus, and PepsiCo will be offering its new beverage, Tava, in Fall 2007, according to the Times article.
According to the Coca-Cola Web site, Diet Coke Plus will contain niacin (vitamin B-3), vitamins B-6 and B-12, zinc and magnesium. Tava contains zero calories and zero caffeine and is enhanced with vitamins B-6 and E and niacin, according to Michelle Naughton, spokesperson for Pepsi-Cola North America.
"We have consumers that have told us they're interested in beverages that have added health and wellness benefits," Naughton said. "At Pepsi, we have something for everyone including Aquafina water and iced teas."
Tava will be launched nationwide in three flavors: Tahitian Tamure, which is a tropical berry blend; Mediterranean Fiesta, a black cherry citrus; and Brazilian Samba, a passion fruit lime flavor, Naughton said.
Coca-Cola spokesperson Scott Williamson echoed Naughton's concern for the consumers' interest, but pointed out that Coca-Cola also offers a variety of beverage options including Dasani water and Minute Maid juice drinks.
"It all starts with what the consumer wants," Williamson said. "We talk to people that drink our products every day, and got a positive response from loyal drinkers (on Diet Coke Plus)."
Accounting graduate student Carrie Gardiner is skeptical that the companies' new health-promoting image will be effective.
"It's like saying salads are served at a fast-food restaurant," Gardiner said. "It's still fast food and not good for you."
The two global companies, whose original formulas were both created in the late 19th century, are now introducing carbonated drinks promoted as "sparkling beverages." These new beverages are fortified with vitamins and minerals, according to an article in the New York Times on March 7.
This month, Coca-Cola is introducing Diet Coke Plus, and PepsiCo will be offering its new beverage, Tava, in Fall 2007, according to the Times article.
According to the Coca-Cola Web site, Diet Coke Plus will contain niacin (vitamin B-3), vitamins B-6 and B-12, zinc and magnesium. Tava contains zero calories and zero caffeine and is enhanced with vitamins B-6 and E and niacin, according to Michelle Naughton, spokesperson for Pepsi-Cola North America.
"We have consumers that have told us they're interested in beverages that have added health and wellness benefits," Naughton said. "At Pepsi, we have something for everyone including Aquafina water and iced teas."
Tava will be launched nationwide in three flavors: Tahitian Tamure, which is a tropical berry blend; Mediterranean Fiesta, a black cherry citrus; and Brazilian Samba, a passion fruit lime flavor, Naughton said.
Coca-Cola spokesperson Scott Williamson echoed Naughton's concern for the consumers' interest, but pointed out that Coca-Cola also offers a variety of beverage options including Dasani water and Minute Maid juice drinks.
"It all starts with what the consumer wants," Williamson said. "We talk to people that drink our products every day, and got a positive response from loyal drinkers (on Diet Coke Plus)."
Accounting graduate student Carrie Gardiner is skeptical that the companies' new health-promoting image will be effective.
"It's like saying salads are served at a fast-food restaurant," Gardiner said. "It's still fast food and not good for you."
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