Questioning McDonald's And Coke's Olympics Sponsorship Over Links to Obesity Epidemic

Recently the president of the International Olympic Committee admitted that there is a 'question mark' over the sponsorship of the Games by McDonald's and Coca-Cola.

Recently the president of the International Olympic Committee, Jacques Rogge, admitted that there is a 'question mark' over the sponsorship of the Games by McDonald's and Coca-Cola over concerns about growing obesity among people.

According to The Telegraph, Rogge said the companies had been asked to address the issue, and extending the sponsorship deal for McDonald's was 'not an easy decision'.

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Health groups are increasingly serious about the linking of the games to high-calorie consumer brands.

He said there were 'big questions about BP, big questions about McDonald's and the amount of sugar and obesity that is costing the NHS millions".

"We've said to them: 'Listen, there is an issue in terms of the growing trend on obesity, what are you going to do about that?'" Rogge said.

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However, he said that sponsors' financial support was important for backing the games at 'grassroots levels'.

"But then we decided to go and to have the benefit of their support at grassroots levels," Rogge added.

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He cited that the introduction of healthier menu options and by McDonald's and Coca-Cola's zero-calorie drinks are evidence that they were taking public health seriously.

He said money from sponsors ensured the survival of Olympic sports and national teams.

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"We have to support and alleviate the needs of... our national Olympic committees [and] international federations. Most [of the latter] are on a lifeline for the Olympic Games and they need financial support."

McDonald's has four restaurants in London's Olympic Park, including its biggest in the world, which has a seating capacity for 1,500 people.

Source-ANI