Coca-Cola has announced plans to launch a new cola variant made with U.S.-produced cane sugar this fall, marking a departure from the company’s traditional use of high-fructose corn syrup in its American sodas.
The beverage giant made this known on Tuesday while presenting its second-quarter earnings report, which showed a 1% year-over-year increase in revenue, totalling $12.5 billion. Net income rose significantly by 58% to $3.8 billion, driven by strong marketing initiatives such as the “Share a Coke” campaign.
The planned launch follows remarks by President Donald Trump, who claimed on his Truth Social account last week that he had influenced Coca-Cola’s decision to switch to cane sugar. The company did not directly attribute the move to Trump’s comments but confirmed that the new product aims to diversify offerings and meet consumer preferences.
Coca-Cola clarified that the cane sugar will be domestically sourced. The Mexican version of Coke, which uses cane sugar and comes in glass bottles, is already available in the U.S. market at a premium price.
Health officials have long debated the use of high-fructose corn syrup. U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., has openly criticised the ingredient, urging food companies to consider healthier alternatives. He previously described sugar as a “poison,” citing concerns over its link to various health conditions.
The new cola variant is expected to be part of Coca-Cola’s ongoing strategy to expand its product range and adapt to changing consumer demands.
