Vitaminwater lawsuit to proceed as class action

19 July 2013 - 10:03
By Sapa-AP

A judge has ruled that a case challenging the claims on popular Vitaminwater drinks as misleading can move forward as a class-action lawsuit.

Attorneys representing the health-advocacy group Center for Science in the Public Interest and consumers from several states have accused Coca-Cola Co. of using deceptive labeling on Vitaminwater beverages, including claims that they reduce risks of disease and boost the immune system.

U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert Levy said in a ruling Thursday in New York that the lawsuit can proceed as a class-action lawsuit. The plaintiffs can seek injunctive relief, which would prevent Coca-Cola from making certain claims for the product. The judge said the parties cannot seek financial damages.

In 2010, a judge denied Coca-Cola's attempts to have the lawsuit dismissed on technical grounds.