In the United States, the obesity epidemic is one of the biggest health concerns, as it affects a very large amount of the population, which is why doctors and nutritionists alike advice children and adults to keep off consuming products like carbonated drinks - but now, Coke experts are trying to push forward the notion that, in reality, the classic drink is a healthy snack.

The Coke experts are being viewed with skepticism, not only because they stand against years of research, but also because The Coca-Cola Company is supporting the research, something that has put great concern on many who are convinced this clearly leads the research towards the big company.

According to Star Tribune, the big soda company is teaming up with a group of Coke experts, who specialize in nutrition and fitness, most of who recently posted articles for the American Heart Month about the supposed benefits of the iconic drink.

Newser reports that these Coke experts have stated that it's all right to drink a mini-can of Coca-Cola, as well as just about any other soda. However, the investigation has been called into doubt due to the fact that they're working alongside the big company, and possibly even getting paid by them.

Capital OTC reports that different journalists attempted to contact The Coca-Cola Company to ask them about whether the Coke experts were really under salary in the corporation, but Ben Sheidler, a spokesperson for the company, refused to give details about who works for them and who doesn't, only stating that each big brand has a network of bloggers and other talent, and yes, in their case, that also included dietitians.

Over the past few years, soda companies have received a lot of criticism over the high levels of sugar in their products, and Coca-Cola, Pepsi and Dr Pepper, the three biggest brands in the industry, vowed last year to lower their sugar levels.

For now, the Coke experts have been called part of an "opaque" strategy of sponsored content.