Coke adding 90-calorie slim cans

By Joe Guy Collier

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Could less be more appealing to some consumers?

Coca-Cola Co. will introduce 90-calorie slim cans of Coke in 2010 as part of a broader effort to adjust to the demands of consumers trying to make better decisions about their health. The new cans will be smaller than a 12-ounce can, which has 140 calories.

The move comes as health care advocates point to soft drinks as a factor leading to obesity. Some politicians and watchdog groups have suggested taxing soft drinks to help pay for health care reform.

In addition to the new slim cans, Coca-Cola announced last week it would put caloric information on the front of almost all of its global packages by the end of 2011.

Coca-Cola also said it is working with industry associations, food and beverage manufacturers, retail partners and other allies in the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation to launch programs to help reduce obesity by 2015. Some other members of the group include PepsiCo, General Mills, Nestle USA and ConAgra.

“We recognize that the world is changing and that increasingly, Americans are realizing the importance of living an active, balanced and healthy lifestyle,” said Sandy Douglas, president of Coca-Cola North America and treasurer of the Healthy Weight Commitment Foundation, in a press statement. “As a beverage industry leader, Coca-Cola is proud to do our part to help make it easier for people to achieve their goals.”