President Donald Trump announced on Wednesday that Coca-Cola has agreed to produce its classic soda using real cane sugar, and is moving production to the United States.
American consumers will finally be able to purchase an equivalent to the imported Mexican version, which many consumers go out of their way to acquire.
The announcement came via Truth Social, where Trump revealed his discussions with company executives.
Trump wrote of his ongoing discussions with Coca-Cola’s leadership to advocate for removing high-fructose corn syrup. “I have been speaking to Coca-Cola about using REAL Cane Sugar in Coke in the United States, and they have agreed to do so,” he stated.
He also extended his thanks to the Coca-Cola company for their open-minded cooperation.
Trump finished his thoughts by praising the change with gusto, “This will be a very good move by them — You’ll see, It’s just better!”
Coca-Cola has released a statement hinting the changes are coming soon, but did not elaborate. Specifics on their new offerings are to be released in the coming weeks.
The company also expressed its gratitude for Trump’s support, stating, “We appreciate President Trump’s enthusiasm for our iconic Coca-Cola brand.”
Trump is well-known for his fondness for Diet Coke, making his excitement for the brand all the more endearing.
This move aligns with Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr’s “Make America Healthy Again” agenda, which has been targeting food dyes and additives, many of which are banned in other countries including the European Union.
Kennedy’s MAHA Commission released a report linking high-fructose corn syrup as a contributor to obesity and related health issues. The document called for reforms in food production practices as well as the need for healthier alternatives in popular products.
Coca-Cola transitioned to high-fructose corn syrup in its American formula by the end of 1984. The change was driven by federal subsidies to corn farmers which rendered the syrup a much cheaper alternative to cane sugar.
Trump’s announcement did not come without criticism. Representatives from the corn industry argued that shifting to imported cane sugar could harm domestic markets.
“Replacing high fructose corn syrup with cane sugar doesn’t make sense. President Trump stands for American manufacturing jobs, American farmers, and reducing the trade deficit. Replacing high fructose corn syrup with cane sugar would cost thousands of American food manufacturing jobs, depress farm income, and boost imports of foreign sugar, all with no nutritional benefit,” said John Bode, president and CEO of the Corn Refiners Association
It’s no secret that soda fans prefer real sugar in their pop. High-fructose corn syrup has a thick consistency that makes sodas feel heavier, and Mexican coke has been described in blind tastes tests as having a better mouthfeel.
Coca-Cola doesn’t reveal information on how large the “Mexicoke” market is in the USA, but considering its cult-following, countless Americans are going to thrilled with this change.
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