Corn Syrup Controversy: Trump Claims Coca-Cola to Ditch It for Cane Sugar in U.S. Production
A bold statement from Donald Trump has reignited debate over one of America’s most controversial sweeteners: corn syrup. The former president took to Truth Social on Wednesday, claiming Coca-Cola will be switching its U.S. formula to use real cane sugar, a move that echoes the beloved Mexican version of the iconic soft drink.
“I have been speaking to Coca-Cola about using REAL Cane Sugar in Coke in the United States, and they have agreed to do so,” wrote Trump. “I’d like to thank all of those in authority at Coca-Cola.”
He didn’t stop there. Despite being known for his fondness for Diet Coke, Trump added, “This will be a very good move by them — You’ll see. It’s just better!”
Coca-Cola, however, is staying tight-lipped. The company issued a brief response: “We appreciate President Trump’s enthusiasm for our iconic Coca-Cola brand. More details on new innovative offerings within our Coca-Cola product range will be shared soon.” No confirmation. No timeline.
This announcement — if true — would mark a major shakeup in U.S. soda manufacturing. Coca-Cola switched to high-fructose corn syrup in the 1980s, driven by the low cost of subsidised corn.
It’s a change that’s stuck, even as Mexican Coke, made with cane sugar, has become a cult favourite among soda lovers. They claim it tastes smoother, cleaner, and more authentic.
The political undertones are unmistakable. Trump’s declaration came amid a broader push by allies like Robert F. Kennedy Jr., now Health and Human Services Secretary, to overhaul what goes into America’s food and drink.
His “Make America Healthy Again” campaign targets artificial dyes and additives, and specifically calls out high-fructose corn syrup for its link to obesity and related illnesses.
Yet, the science is murky. Experts argue the nutritional gap between cane sugar and corn syrup is minimal. Still, perception often outweighs fact when it comes to food.
Not everyone is thrilled. The Corn Refiners Association fired back swiftly. “Replacing high fructose corn syrup with cane sugar doesn’t make sense,” said John Bode, its president and CEO.
“President Trump stands for American manufacturing jobs, American farmers, and reducing the trade deficit. Replacing high fructose corn syrup with cane sugar would cost thousands of American food manufacturing jobs, depress farm income, and boost imports of foreign sugar, all with no nutritional benefit.”
It’s a sticky situation, both literally and politically. On one hand, a shift to cane sugar might appease health-conscious consumers and bring Coca-Cola closer to its nostalgic roots.
On the other hand, it could stir economic tensions, undercut domestic agriculture, and conflict with Trump’s own “America First” agenda.
For now, everything hangs in the balance. Will Coca-Cola truly cut the corn syrup and embrace cane sugar across its U.S. lineup? Or is this another classic Trump move — big on promise, short on details?
Either way, the cola wars just got a lot sweeter… or perhaps just more complicated.
