University returning $1 million Coke contribution for health group

The University of Colorado School of Medicine is returning a US$1 million contribution from Coca-Cola to start a group that says it's dedicated to ending obesity.

The money was provided to establish the Global Energy Balance Network, which says it is working on an "evidence-based approach to ending obesity". Since a New York Times story noted its funding from Coke in August, the group has been criticised for trying to play down the role sugary drinks play in fuelling weight gain and instead playing up the importance for physical activity.

The group's president, James Hill, is a professor at the university.

"While the network continues to advocate for good health through a balance of healthy eating habits and exercise, the funding source has distracted attention from its worthwhile goal," the university said. Coca-Cola said the money would be given to the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. "While the network continues to support a vigorous scientific discussion of the contributions of dietary and physical activity behaviours to the obesity epidemic, it has become evident the original vision for GEBN has not been realised," Coca-Cola said.