On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, President Donald Trump used his Truth Social platform to announce that Coca-Cola agreed to use real cane sugar in its U.S. formula, replacing the high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) it currently uses.
“I have been talking to Coca-Cola about using REAL cane sugar in Coca-Cola in the United States and they have agreed to do it,” he stated. He thanked the company’ s executives for the “very good decision” and added: “It’s just better!” he said. .
What was Coca-Cola’s response?
Although the company did not officially confirm the change, it issued a diplomatic statement, according to People: “We appreciate President Trump’s enthusiasm for our iconic brand. We will share more details about innovative new Coca-Cola offerings soon.” .
This announcement is part of the company’s sugar reduction efforts, as stated by CEO James Quincey last April.
Currently, corn syrup has been used almost exclusively in Coca-Cola in the United States since the 1980s, for reasons of cost and agricultural subsidies.
In other markets, such as Mexico, the United Kingdom and Australia, the beverage is already sweetened with cane sugar, which generates a “more authentic” taste perception.
Repercussions for Trump’s idea
The announcement has provoked mixed reactions:
Corn Refiners Association
The Corn Refiners Association warned that switching from corn syrup to cane sugar could lead to job losses in the Midwest agricultural sector, reduced incomes and increased imports, without significant nutritional improvements.
Public Health
Secretary of Health and Human Services Robert F. Kennedy Jr. who leads the Make America Healthy Again initiative, has criticized ingredients such as corn syrup and promoted the use of cane sugar.
Cultural policy
Some analysts say Trump’s announcement may be a ploy to distract from other contentious issues, which has led to skepticism about whether the change will actually be implemented.
Impact for the Hispanic consumer
For many Hispanics who grew up with Mexican Coke, this news represents the possibility of bringing the flavor they identify with family gatherings and holidays to the local market.
If Coca-Cola changes the sweetener, demand for U.S. or imported cane sugar would increase, which could make the product more expensive.
The debate highlights how agricultural subsidies, public health and cultural tastes intersect in everyday consumer products.
La reducción de azúcar en la bebida se establece como una medida que beneficie la salud de los consumidores ¿pero eso cambiaría el sabor del legendario producto?
When will the change be effective?
Buzzy
At the moment, there is no official date or specific details on when or how it will be implemented, if at all.
Coca-Cola only said it would share “innovative new offerings” in the near future.
The agricultural sector and health regulators continue to monitor any progress.
Find out more at ‘QueOnnda.com’.
