GSK pre-broadcast statement on BBC Panorama: “The truth about Sports Products”, 19 July 2012

Issued: London UK

GlaxoSmithKline today issued the following statement in anticipation of the BBC Panorama programme, “The truth about sports products”, which is scheduled to be aired this evening.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) is a company dedicated to healthcare and we approach all claims about our products with the highest scientific rigour. Lucozade Sport and the Maxinutrition range have become leading sports nutrition products and play a valued role in the active lives of millions of people in the UK. Consumers trust their quality, the science behind our claims and the benefits they feel when they use them.

Over 40 years of research experience and 85 peer reviewed studies have supported the development of Lucozade Sport. The evidence supporting the performance benefits of carbohydrate-electrolyte drinks such as Lucozade Sport is strong and has been independently studied and verified by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). Lucozade Sport is designed for adults who train and take part in sport and other physical exercise. It is formulated to help replace salts and minerals lost through sweating and includes a mix of different carbohydrates, the levels of which are designed to replenish our fuel reserves during and after exercise. These sugars are not included to sweeten or improve the drink’s taste.  Far from being an excessive amount, there is actually much less sugar in Lucozade Sport than many soft drinks and less than many fruit juices.

Maxinutrition, Europe’s leading sports nutrition company, became part of GSK in 2011. Over the past 15 years Maxinutrition has helped to shape the sports nutrition industry and its products (Maximuscle, Maxifuel and Maxitone), are designed for people taking part in sports and exercise, and are trusted by elite athletes, professional sports teams and governing bodies.  Sports supplements can be very helpful to those taking part in sport or exercise that require a specific nutrient intake.  They are also useful for people on reduced calorie diets when it can be difficult to obtain all the necessary nutrients while cutting out certain foods.

Maxinutrition products carry detailed labelling information, including a list of full ingredients, full nutritional information and usage advice, to ensure consumers are fully informed.

We take our responsibilities to consumers very seriously.  We do not promote Lucozade Sport or any of the Maxinutrition products to children under 16 and we label contents clearly.  All our marketing is focused on encouraging participation in sport and supporting those who exercise. 

We will of course consider the views put forward in Panorama’s programme and would also invite any consumers who have any questions about the points raised in the programme to contact us directly.

Click here for more information on the Lucozade and Maxinutrition ranges.

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