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Coca-Cola uses HFCS in most drinks, cane sugar in select ones like Mexican Coke, and aspartame in Diet Coke, offering a variety of sweeteners across its range
Coca-cola could face double hits on profits due to tariffs and supply chain adjustments required for such a transition. (Representative/AP)
US President Donald Trump has made a significant announcement regarding Coca-Cola on social media, sparking widespread discussion. Trump revealed that Coca-Cola will start using real cane sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup in its soft drinks, claiming this change was made at his request to benefit consumers.
This statement has generated much debate online, with some viewing it as a positive health move while others question its validity.
What Did Donald Trump Say To Coca-Cola
The Times of India reported that Trump posted on the social media platform ‘Truth Social’, stating, “I was talking to Coca-Cola about using real cane sugar in their drinks in the US, and they have agreed to it. I thank all the responsible people at Coca-Cola. This will be a great decision on their part and you will see it for yourself. It’s just better!”
What Was Coca-Cola’s Response?
However, Coca-Cola’s response was somewhat ambiguous. While the company thanked Trump for his support, they did not confirm if they would indeed switch to cane sugar, nor did they specify when and where this change might occur. The situation remains unclear, but Trump’s announcement has undoubtedly heightened public awareness about Coca-Cola’s ingredients and their health implications.
What’s Trump’s History With Coca-Cola?
Coca-Cola has maintained a tradition since 2005 of gifting each president a special bottle when they take office. In January this year, Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey presented Trump with a customised Diet Coke bottle. According to a Mint report, Trump is known to be a big fan of Diet Coke. He reportedly consumed about 12 cans a day during his first term. In 2017, he was gifted a standard Coca-Cola bottle, later swapped for his preferred Diet Coke.
Should Coca-Cola revert to using cane sugar in its US products, it could significantly increase costs. For instance, Mexican Coke, which uses cane sugar, is sold at a premium price in America, with a 12-can pack costing between 15 and 20 dollars, compared to just 6 dollars for Coca-Cola with high-fructose corn syrup.
Tariffs May Deal Double Blow to Company Profits
The company could face double hits on profits due to tariffs and supply chain adjustments required for such a transition.
Currently, Coca-Cola employs various sweeteners across its range of products. High-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is used in mainstream drinks, while cane sugar features in select offerings like Mexican Coke or Heritage Edition. Diet Coke uses artificial sweeteners such as aspartame.
With potential packaging cost increases driven by Trump’s aluminium tariff, a simultaneous switch in sweeteners could further impact the company’s profits.
Experts suggest that if Coca-Cola does move towards using cane sugar, the change will likely be gradual, beginning with limited edition products to minimise immediate cost and supply chain disruptions.
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