Being one of the largest labels in the soda industry, Coco-Cola is recognized all over the world for it’s classic sugary taste, and it’s refreshing appeal. In most regions, it is difficult to find a store that does not sell coke by the bottle/can/jug/etc. Due to the amount of Coco-Cola products sold, plus it’s unhealthy nutritional contents, the company has been criticized tirelessly for it’s contribution to an increasing obesity rate.

Recently, in reference to this article, Coco-Cola donate $1.5 million to set up an organization, The Global Energy Balance Network (GEBN), which is intended to help spread awareness on the effects of high calorie consumption and minimal exercise.  Although Coco-Cola’s efforts are in support of their consumer’s healthier lifestyle, the company has received backlash from critics. The issue at hand is that Coco-Cola is attempting to find ways to maximize their stakeholders profit, while still keeping their product on the market; despite it’s health concerns.

As an avid coke drinker, I see their drink as one of the most enjoyable parts of my day. However, I am completely aware of the negative effects that comes along with consuming such a sugary beverage. The fact that Coca-Cola is within there legal boundaries by creating GEBN, I don’t find their actions to be ethically incorrect. Granted, if Coco-Cola products were taken off the market, obesity would decline, because the consumer would not be given the option to drink such an unhealthy beverage. But being that there are consumers of Coke, such as myself, who are not at risk of obesity due to their knowledge of calorie intake, it is unfeasible to suggest that Coco-Cola should remove their products off the shelf entirely..

-Timmy Drabble