Is Vitaminwater Worse Than Soda? Lawsuit Outcome Questioned

Vitaminwater has long been the source of controversy since the candy-colored "nutritional" beverages have been found to have as much as 31 grams of sugar in one drink, which makes them no better than, well, candy. And the World Health Organization (WHO) recently advised adults to consume no more than 24 grams of sugar each day. Since a string of lawsuits starting in 2009 about the brand's deceptive advertising that its drinks are "good for you," Coca-Cola, the parent company of Glacéau which makes vitaminwater, reached a settlement, in which they will have to change the brand's marketing. However, Truth in Advertising has just filed an objection against the proposed settlement claiming that it is not enough.

"Under the terms of the agreement, the class members are to receive zero cash reimbursement. Coca-Cola also gets to continue calling its product 'vitaminwater' and can still market the sugary drink in a deceptive manner," claims the watchdog organization.

In the original settlement, the proposed changes to the vitaminwater beverages include listing the calorie count in bold type on the front of the bottle, and ceasing to make statements about the drinks' proclaimed healthfulness.

A final hearing that could determine whether Coca-Cola can even keep the name vitaminwater will take place in December. 

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Joanna Fantozzi is an Associate Editor with The Daily Meal. Follow her on Twitter @JoannaFantozzi