The Coca-Cola Company said last week it had launched a research center for traditional Chinese medicine in Beijing to develop beverages using Chinese herbal ingredients and formulas. (photo: file photo from xinhuanet.com)

"We see this center as an important step in strengthening our innovation pipeline for beverages that contribute to well-being," said Rhona Applebaum, vice president and chief science and regulatory officer of Coca-Cola.

"We can add global reach and world class marketing skills to help promote Chinese wisdom in preventive holistic health through new and innovative beverages," said Applebaum.

Coca-Cola said it might market the products abroad, but there were no concrete plans yet.

Coca-Cola currently produces and sells sparkling drinks, still beverages as well as tea and water in China, a fast-growing market.

The research center is part of a long-term collaboration agreement with the Chinese Academy of Chinese Medical Sciences, it said.

(Agencies via Shenzhen Daily October 25, 2007)