Health Implications and Consumer Concerns
While the Food and Drug Administration generally recognizes citric acid and potassium citrate as safe for consumption, the lawsuit points to potential health concerns associated with these synthetic additives. Medical literature has documented cases where these substances have been linked to muscular pain, stomach discomfort, and electrolyte imbalances in sensitive individuals.
However, the health implications represent only one dimension of Palmer’s legal challenge. The core issue centers on consumer trust and the right to make informed purchasing decisions based on accurate product information.
Consumer advocacy groups have increasingly raised concerns about the proliferation of misleading natural claims in the food and beverage industry. The term “natural” lacks strict regulatory definition, creating opportunities for companies to exploit consumer preferences for cleaner, more wholesome products.
The Broader Greenwashing Crisis
This lawsuit arrives amid mounting scrutiny of corporate greenwashing practices across multiple industries. Greenwashing occurs when companies use environmental or health-conscious marketing language to create false impressions about their products’ actual attributes.
Coca-Cola’s recent corporate history includes several instances that critics cite as examples of greenwashing. Earlier in 2025, the company faced criticism for quietly abandoning its public commitment to make 25% of its soda bottles returnable or refillable by 2030. This retreat from environmental pledges occurred despite extensive marketing campaigns promoting the company’s sustainability efforts.
The beverage giant has earned the dubious distinction of being named the world’s worst plastic polluter for six consecutive years, according to environmental monitoring organizations. Despite this record, Coca-Cola continues to promote its environmental initiatives, including investments in recycling infrastructure and a transition to 100% recycled plastic for 20-ounce bottles.
