Coconut water is the new drink of choice among celebrities and athletes and is a staple at marathons, triathlons and other sporting events. Its popularity stems from marketing campaigns billing coconut water as a great way to stay hydrated and recover after a workout and is seen as a natural alternative to sports drinks. The beneficial claims associated with coconut water are seemingly endless. Marketers and manufacturers claim that it is more nutritious than whole milk (less fat and no cholesterol), healthier than orange juice (fewer calories), and have even dubbed it “the universal donor” because it is allegedly identical to human blood plasma. It is also claimed to slow aging, improve circulation, fight viruses and reduce the risk of cancer. With claims like this, it is no wonder coconut water is flying off the shelves despite their high costs (approximately $3.00 for 11-14 ounces). But are the claims true?
As they say, if it seems too good to be true, it usually is. ConsumerLab.com, an independent health-product testing firm, recently issued a report reflecting the results of its tests on the three leading brands of coconut water, Vita Coco, O.N.E. and Zico Natural. ConsumerLab.com tested the sodium, potassium, magnesium, and sugar content of three brands and found that only Zico Natural contained the stated amount of all four ingredients. The other two products contained the sugar and potassium contents they claim to, but did not contain the sodium and magnesium amounts claimed on the label. In fact, sodium and magnesium were as much as 83% and 35% lower, respectively, than the listed amount. Since the electrolyte content is one of the main selling points of coconut water, it seems consumers are not getting what they paid for.
Indeed, a class action lawsuit was filed earlier today in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, alleging that All Market Inc., the manufacturer of Vita Coco, knew or should have known of the discrepancy in the ingredients and amounts in Vita Coco. The class includes all those who purchased Vita Coco since 2007.
If you purchased Vita Coco or O.N.E. or another brand of coconut water based on the advertising promises of their health benefits, you may have been a victim of consumer fraud. Please contact us to discuss your legal options.