Food Manifest 
Report
California resident Victoria Palmer has filed a proposed class action lawsuit against Coca-Cola, accusing the beverage giant of falsely advertising several Sprite and Fanta products as containing “100% Natural Flavours.” She claims the drinks include key flavour ingredients—such as industrially produced citric acid, sodium citrate, and artificial sweeteners—that are synthetic, not natural, as the label suggests.
Synthetic Additives Central to the Case
Palmer alleges that manufacturers do not derive the citric acid in these beverages from fruit but produce it through a chemical process involving genetically mutated mold (Aspergillus niger). This additive plays a crucial role in shaping the tart flavour of Sprite and Fanta. The suit also highlights the presence of other synthetic compounds such as sodium citrate and potassium citrate. In zero-sugar versions like Sprite Zero Sugar and Fanta Zero Sugar Orange, manufacturers use artificial sweeteners like aspartame and acesulfame potassium, which the lawsuit also scrutinises.
“Natural” Label Seen as Deceptive
The lawsuit argues that the “100% Natural Flavours” label misleads consumers into believing the drinks are made solely with naturally derived ingredients. Palmer, who purchased Sprite on Amazon after seeing this label, says she believed the product was healthier and of better quality. She states she would not have purchased it, or would have paid less, had she known about the synthetic additives.
Citing a study by the Acosta Group, the complaint notes that a growing number of consumers, especially younger generations, actively seek out products labelled “natural,” associating them with health and safety. The plaintiffs argue that Coca-Cola exploited this trend, misleading buyers with false claims.
Violation of Labelling Laws Alleged
The lawsuit accuses Coca-Cola of violating both federal and state labelling laws, including the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FDCA) and California’s Sherman Law. These laws prohibit misleading claims and require accurate labelling. Plaintiffs assert that the products are “misbranded” under these regulations due to their deceptive marketing. The lawsuit aims to represent a nationwide class of consumers, as well as a California subclass, who purchased Sprite or Fanta products based on the “100% Natural Flavours” label. As of now, Coca-Cola has not issued a public response.
