Coke And Pepsi Sponsor Health Organizations, Oppose Health Laws

The obesity epidemic represents one of the foremost public health crises in the United States, as more than a third of Americans are obese and another third are overweight. Research has shown soda consumption is a major cause of the country’s collective obesity, with one study estimating soda was responsible for a fifth of all weight gain since 1977. 

Coca-Cola and Pepsi have both pledged to help fight the obesity epidemic, but the companies have faced criticism for shifting the focus away from nutritional choices in favor of increased physical activity. Meanwhile, some of the health organizations that accept money from these soft drink giants have garnered criticism for seemingly downplaying the health risks of soda consumption.

Coca-Cola and Pepsi spend millions each year in sponsorships and donations to nearly a hundred medical and public health organizations, even as the soda companies and their allied lobbying groups work to defeat legislation intended to curb the nation’s obesity epidemic. A new study offers the first ever comprehensive look at just how widespread are Coke and Pepsi’s connections with health organizations.