Coca-Cola receives the mocking award “Golden Windbag”: In an online vote by the consumer organisation foodwatch, almost a third of the 70,000 participants voted “Smartwater” the most audacious advertising lie of the year. The criticism: contrary to what Coca-Cola suggests, “Smartwater” is no better than conventional mineral water - but costs up to seven times as much. The beverage company refers to an allegedly “from clouds inspired” manufacturing method.

Food scandals, fraudulent practices and health hazards: On 16 October foodwatch International Director Thilo Bode had a public podium discussion with Michael Scannell, Director, Food Chain, Stakeholders and International Relations of the European Commission on the question of food safety in Europe. In particular, they discussed shortcoming and loopholes of EU's General Food Law (Regulation EC 178/2002), which has been a long-standing battleground for foodwatch. The General Food Law was adopted in 2001 in response to the BSE crisis and currently to be revised.

EU food law does not adequately protect European citizens from food scandals. This is criticized by the international consumer organization foodwatch in its new report „Lost in the Supermarket“. The more than 50-page report gives an in-depth analysis of the food law of the European Union – and reveals fundamental weaknesses. For example, traceability along the food supply chain is not being consistently enforced and authorities are still not obliged to inform consumers quickly and comprehensively about health risks posed by foodstuffs.