Zero Coca-Cola in Venezuela

Venezuela has banned the sale of the calorie-free Coke Zero, calling it harmful to people's well-being. "The product should be withdrawn from circulation to preserve the health of Venezuelans," said Health Minister Jesus Mantilla. Mr Mantilla did not say what the specific problem with Coke Zero was. Coca-Cola said it would stop production of the drink in the country, but also added that Coke Zero contained no harmful products.

Venezuela's President Hugo Chavez is a vocal critic of the US, and is in the process of nationalising much of the economy. Venezuela is the world's ninth largest oil producer and has already ationalised much of its oil and gas sector since Mr Chavez came to power. Recently he took over its third largest bank, Banco de Venezuela.