In the remote Mexican town of San Cristóbal de las Casas, a disturbing trend has emerged: children as young as six are consuming up to two litres of Coca-Cola daily. What was once an occasional treat has become a dangerous habit, with devastating consequences for the community's health.
A Sweet Addiction With Bitter Consequences
Local health workers report seeing toddlers drinking Coke from baby bottles, while schoolchildren regularly consume the sugary beverage with every meal. "We're seeing children with multiple cavities, obesity problems, and even early signs of type 2 diabetes," explains Dr. María González, a pediatrician at the local clinic.
How Did This Happen?
The crisis stems from several alarming factors:
- Cheaper than water: In some local shops, Coke costs less than bottled water
- Cultural acceptance: Many parents believe Coke helps with digestion
- Aggressive marketing: Coca-Cola signage dominates the town's landscape
- Poor water infrastructure: Many residents distrust the local water supply
The Corporate Response
Coca-Cola FEMSA, the local bottler, maintains they "promote responsible consumption" and point to their smaller portion sizes and low-calorie options. However, critics argue these measures are insufficient given the scale of the problem.
Nutritionist Alejandro Martínez warns: "We're creating a generation with shortened life expectancies. The health system will collapse under the weight of diabetes and heart disease cases in 20 years if this continues."
A Glimmer of Hope
Some community leaders are fighting back. Local schools have banned sugary drinks, and health educators are working to change perceptions. "It's slow work," admits teacher Luisa Morales, "but we're starting to see some parents switch to healthier alternatives."
As the world debates sugar taxes and food labeling, San Cristóbal serves as a sobering case study of what happens when a community becomes dependent on sugary drinks.
