The Coca-Cola Company has been served notice of a class action lawsuit filed over what the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) says are deceptive and unsubstantiated claims on its VitaminWater line of beverages.

Coke markets VitaminWater as a healthful alternative to soda by labeling its several flavors with such health buzz words as "defense," "rescue," "energy," and "endurance." The company makes a wide range of dramatic claims, including that its drinks variously reduce the risk of chronic disease, reduce the risk of eye disease, promote healthy joints, and support optimal immune function. In fact, according to CSPI nutritionists, the 33 grams of sugar in each bottle of VitaminWater do more to promote obesity, diabetes, and other health problems than the vitamins in the drinks do to perform the advertised benefits listed on the bottles [Source: CSPI].

Back in 2006, we called VitaminWater DietTrash because of the high caloric and sugar content of a bottle of this "Water" - 125 calories and 33 grams of sugar as CSPI mentions. Most people who I've pointed this had no idea. It is still one of the most highly commented on posts - but we stand by this. It's the deceptive nature of the name & marketing - not that it's bad for you.