COCA-COLA’S CHALLENGES: REGULATORY SCRUTINY AND PUBLIC HEALTH CONCERNS
Coca-Cola is facing a double ‘whammy’ of regulatory scrutiny and public health concerns. In Nigeria, the Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) has accused Coca-Cola Nigeria Ltd and the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) of misleading trade descriptions and unfair marketing tactics. The commission found that the companies deceived consumers by describing their “Original Taste, Less Sugar” variant as the same as the “Original Taste” variant in terms of formulation. (nairametrics.com)
Meanwhile, public health experts are calling for the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to end its partnership with Coca-Cola, citing the company’s contribution to the global epidemic of type 2 diabetes and other health issues. The experts argue that Coca-Cola’s sponsorship of the Olympics is contradictory to the values of promoting health and wellness. (wired.com)
The connection between the two stories lies in Coca-Cola’s perceived promotion of unhealthy marketing tactics and product formulations, for which concerns are being raised among regulators and public health experts, as well as current regulatory action. Similarly, on the global front, the company must also address the concerns of public health experts with regard to its sponsorship of the Olympics, given the IOC’s commitment to promoting healthy lifestyle.
Despite the widely acknowledged commitment of the company in the industry to promoting consumer health, the present challenges serve as a reminder of the need for greater transparency and accountability in marketing practices by manufacturers world-wide.
Glytabs Consulting recognizes that the company in existence since 1892, is no stranger to public scrutiny and how quickly they overcome the present travails will depend on the ability to address the concerns raised and demonstrate a continued commitment to promoting public health.
Image credit: wired.com
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