News Releases & Statements

Statement of American Beverage Association Regarding Soft Drink Consumption Study in Circulation

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JULY 23, 2007

Contacts:    
ABA Communications
202-463-6774

      
STATEMENT OF AMERICAN BEVERAGE ASSOCIATION REGARDING SOFT DRINK CONSUMPTION STUDY IN CIRCULATION

In response to “Soft Drink Consumption and Risk of Developing Cardiometabolic Risk Factors and the Metabolic Syndrome in Middle-Aged Adults in the Community,” a study published in Circulation:  Journal of the American Heart Association, Susan K. Neely, president and chief executive officer of the American Beverage Association (ABA), said:

“This study doesn’t prove any link between soft drinks and increased risk of heart disease.  Its assertions defy the existing body of scientific evidence, as well as common sense.  Even the researchers acknowledge that their study can’t support a link. 

The assertions being made could apply to any caloric product – if you over consume any food or beverage with calories, there are health consequences.  There is no scientific evidence to single out soft drinks as unique in this equation, and even this study doesn’t support such an assertion.

Further, it is scientifically implausible to suggest that diet soft drinks – a beverage that is 99 percent water – cause weight gain or elevated blood pressure.  

All this study does is to again underscore the need for moderation in our diets — a better balance between calories consumed and calories burned.  After all, we know that the key to living a healthy and balanced lifestyle lies in consuming a variety of foods and beverages in moderation along with getting regular exercise.

All of our industry's beverages – including regular or diet soft drinks - can be part of a healthy way of life when consumed in moderation and as part of a balanced lifestyle. Our industry certainly supports the pursuit of balanced lifestyles with the growing development of beverage options beyond the traditional full-calorie offerings to include bottled water, flavored waters, enhanced waters, diet beverages, teas, sports drinks, low-calorie and mid-calorie juice drinks.

The beverage industry is an active partner in efforts to educate the public about making good choices regarding diet and exercise. And we welcome studies and initiatives that improve public awareness of the need for moderation in their diets and more activity in their lifestyle.”



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 The American Beverage Association is the trade association representing the broad spectrum of companies that manufacture and distribute non-alcoholic beverages in the United States.

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