US Edition 
Coca-Cola sales fizz despite sugar backlash
The soft drinks giant says its core 'Coke' brand remains strong, although taste for Diet Coke is waning
Coca-Cola, the world’s largest soft drinks company, reported better-than-expected profits in its fourth quarter, despite falling sales as a result of currency fluctuations.
Net profit rose to $1.24bn (£860m), or 28 cents a share, in the last three months of 2015. This was a 61pc jump on the same period a year before. However, operating revenue fell 8pc to $10bn over the quarter as a result of the strong dollar.
Coca-Cola, which owns brands including Sprite, Fanta and Evian on top of its numerous Coke varieties, has just completed a $3bn cost-cutting programme.
The company is also adjusting to changing consumer tastes and a growing backlash against sugary drinks. It launched its lower-sugar Coke Life variety in the UK in 2014 and has even brought out a range of milk that contains higher protein than other brands, as well as less sugar and no lactose.
Last year it was revealed the company had spent millions of pounds on healthy-eating initiatives and research to counter claims that its fizzy drinks can cause obesity. The drinks company was reported to have financial links to more than a dozen British scientists, including government health advisers, who cast doubt on link between sugary drinks and obesity.
Despite the growing backlash against soft drinks, Coca-Cola said takings for its sparkling beverages remain stable. Sales of Sprite grew 3pc, while Coke Zero rose 7pc in the quarter. However, Diet Coke sales slumped 5pc as consumers switched to other choices.
The company’s healthier drink options also reported a rise in sales, with bottled water up 8pc and tea up 6pc.
Coca-Cola was founded in 1886 by a pharmacist in Atlanta, and was first sold in the UK in 1900.