Trump’s Sweet Deal: Coca-Cola’s Alleged Cane Sugar Comeback

On July 16, Trump tweeted he convinced Coca‑Cola to use “REAL Cane Sugar” instead of high‑fructose corn syrup in U.S. bottles

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Coca‑Cola U.S. typically uses cheaper high‑fructose corn syrup since the 1980s—a switch to cane sugar would be a major ingredient change

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Trump praised the move as “better,” saying he’d spoken with Coca‑Cola execs. The company responded with enthusiasm but didn’t officially confirm

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Analysts estimate replacing corn syrup could add $0.30 per pound, resulting in an $800–900 million annual cost increase for Coca‑Cola

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The Corn Refiners Association warns it would hurt U.S. corn farmers, depress manufacturing jobs, and increase sugar imports

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While the MAHA initiative led by RFK Jr. views HFCS as unhealthy, experts note cane sugar and HFCS have similar nutritional profiles

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Coca‑Cola’s formula in countries like Mexico and Australia uses cane sugar—and U.S. consumers often seek imported “Mexican Coke”

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The company thanked Trump for his enthusiasm and teased “innovative offerings,” but didn’t commit to a full switch

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