In a significant shift for one of the world's most iconic soft drinks, Coca-Cola has quietly replaced high-fructose corn syrup with cane sugar in its UK recipes. This change, though unpublicised, marks a notable departure from the formula used in many other markets.
The Sweet Swap
While American consumers still get their Coca-Cola sweetened with corn syrup, British drinkers are now enjoying a version made with cane sugar. The change reflects growing consumer preference for what many perceive as a more natural sweetener.
Why the Change?
Nutrition experts suggest several reasons for the switch:
- Public perception of cane sugar as healthier than corn syrup
- Different agricultural subsidies in Europe compared to the US
- Changing consumer tastes in the UK market
Health Implications
While both sweeteners contain similar calorie counts, some studies suggest our bodies process them differently. Dr. Sarah Brewer, a nutritionist, explains: "Cane sugar contains sucrose which breaks down into glucose and fructose in the body, while high-fructose corn syrup already contains these separate components."
The move comes as food manufacturers face increasing pressure to reformulate products in response to health concerns about sugar consumption and obesity rates.
