November 5, 1998
Web posted at: 10:16 a.m. EDT (1416 GMT)

(CNN) -- The Center for Science in the Public Interest issued a correction Wednesday to its report on teen-agers and soft-drinks, citing a mathematical error that doubled daily consumption figures.

The group's report, titled Liquid Candy, found today's teens consume twice as much soda as milk, a reversal from 20 years ago. CSPI's executive director called soft drinks "the quintessential junk food," and the report blamed the increased marketing of soft drinks to teens, from television ads to drink machines in school.

Wednesday, the group said it discovered the consulting firm hired to analyze the data made "a serious error." The firm, ENVIRON, failed to divide the consumption figures for two days by two. That means the report had daily consumption figures that were twice what they should have been.

The corrected figures show that the average 13- to- 18- year-old male who drinks soda, consumes 1 2/3 12-ounce cans per day. Five percent of that group down about five or more cans a day.

The average female soda drinker from that same age group consumes more than one can a day. Five percent of those females drink more than three cans a day.

ENVIRON took responsibility for the error. A letter attached to the CSPI's correction reads, "It is appropriate to be sure that all recipients of the report are aware that the error is ours and not CSPI's."

CSPI said it stands by its findings, despite the error. The group encouraged families to review their soda consumption and asked health officials to adopt policies that promote healthier diets. CSPI also pointed out that its consumption data for 13- to 18- year-olds, based directly on USDA data, are correct. The group has also posted a revised press release on its Website.

Carbonated sodas on the assembly line

The group is known for its reports blasting popular foods as unhealthy. In recent years, CSPI has warned the public about the dangers of Chinese food, movie popcorn, fast food, and the fat substitute Olestra.

At least one industry group calls the report on soft drinks a classic consumer watchdog overreaction.

"They won't be happy until they squeeze every bit of sweetness and joy out of life, it seems," said Gene Grabowski of the Grocery Manufacturers of America.

The National Soft Drink Association commented, "Yet again the Center for Science in the Public Interest is promoting unfounded consumer alarm by attacking a perfectly safe and enjoyable food or beverage product, in this case soft drinks."

Some doctors and consumer groups warn too many soft drinks can increase risk for heart and kidney trouble, obesity and tooth decay.

The CSPI concedes that sodas, as an occasional addition to a healthy diet, are not harmful.

Reporter Louise Schiavone contributed to this report.