Coca-Cola announced plans to launch a cane sugar-sweetened version of its flagship beverage in the United States this autumn, confirming President Donald Trump’s recent social media revelation.
The move marks a shift from the company’s longstanding use of high-fructose corn syrup in its US products.
The decision follows direct engagement between Trump and Coca-Cola leadership, as documented in the book 2024: How Trump Retook the White House. According to the publication, the president connected company executives with billionaire sugar producer Jose Fanjul, a significant political donor, during January discussions about sweetener alternatives.
While Coca-Cola already uses cane sugar in international markets and select US products like Vitamin Water, this represents the first major expansion of sugar-sweetened cola in the domestic market since the introduction of “Mexican Coke” in glass bottles in 2005. Company CEO James Quincey characterized the move as responding to consumer preferences during Tuesday’s investor call, emphasizing it would “complement” existing offerings rather than replace them.
Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. had previously raised concerns about corn syrup, though nutrition scientists note minimal metabolic differences between the sweeteners. Industry analysts suggest the reformulation may command premium pricing, similar to the $1.50-$2.00 premium for imported Mexican Coke.
The announcement comes as the Trump administration continues its focus on domestic agricultural interests, with the US sugar industry poised to benefit from increased demand. Market watchers will monitor whether rival PepsiCo follows suit with similar product adjustments.
