Coca-Cola may be preparing to shift from high-fructose corn syrup to cane sugar in its U.S. products, according to comments from President Donald Trump.
The beverage giant has not officially confirmed a recipe change. However, in a Truth Social post on July 16, Trump claimed the company has agreed to use “REAL cane sugar” in its U.S.-sold Coca-Cola drinks.
“I’d like to thank all of those in authority at Coca-Cola. This will be a very good move by them — You’ll see. It’s just better!” Trump wrote.
What Coca-Cola has said
As of July 17, Coca-Cola has not confirmed any changes to its recipe but acknowledged upcoming product developments.
“We appreciate President Trump’s enthusiasm for our iconic Coca‑Cola brand. More details on new innovative offerings within our Coca‑Cola product range will be shared soon,” the company said in a statement.
Coca-Cola is expected to address the topic during its next quarterly earnings call scheduled for Tuesday, July 22, 2025 at 8:30 a.m. ET.
What ingredients are currently used?
Coca-Cola products sold in the U.S. currently use high-fructose corn syrup as a sweetener. In other countries like Mexico, Coca-Cola uses cane sugar, often referred to as “Mexican Coke.”
The difference in sweetener has long been a talking point among soda fans and health-conscious consumers.
What prompted the change?
Trump’s public comments coincide with health initiatives led by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. His “Make America Healthy Again” campaign promotes a shift away from artificial additives and certain processed ingredients, including artificial dyes and high-fructose corn syrup.
Despite these efforts, Kennedy has emphasized that both cane sugar and corn syrup carry health risks and should be consumed in moderation.
Wall Street reacts
Markets responded swiftly to the possibility of a formula change:
- Archer-Daniels-Midland (ADM), a top corn syrup producer, saw shares dip nearly 1% after the news.
- Ingredion, a food ingredient supplier, dropped as much as 7% in pre-market trading before settling at a 0.6% loss.
- Coca-Cola stock rose nearly 2% on July 17.
Is cane sugar actually healthier?
According to the FDA, there’s no clear evidence that cane sugar is safer than high-fructose corn syrup. Both sweeteners contain comparable ratios of glucose and fructose, and overconsumption of either can contribute to weight gain, diabetes, and cardiovascular issues.
Some studies have linked high-fructose corn syrup to increased fat production and inflammation, but official guidance maintains that moderation is key regardless of sweetener type.
What would the change mean for Coca-Cola?
If Coca-Cola shifts to cane sugar, the change would bring logistical and economic impacts:
- Higher costs: Cane sugar is generally more expensive than corn syrup.
- Supply chain disruption: The company would need to adjust sourcing and production strategies.
- Product labeling updates: Ingredients and nutrition facts would need revision.
Industry analysts say any such switch would be significant and require substantial planning.
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