Cane sugar could be making a major comeback in American soft drinks.
On July 16, former President Donald Trump announced via Truth Social that Coca-Cola has agreed to use real cane sugar in its U.S. soda products, replacing high-fructose corn syrup.
“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,” Trump wrote. “This will be a very good move by them — You’ll see. It’s just better!”
Though Coca-Cola has not officially confirmed the switch, a spokesperson told Reuters the company will share details on new offerings soon and expressed appreciation for Trump’s “enthusiasm” for its product.
Background on Cane Sugar vs. Sweeteners
Reuters reports that while U.S. Coca-Cola uses high-fructose corn syrup, its products in other countries are often sweetened with cane sugar.
The switch aligns with broader Trump-era health reforms, including Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) initiative.
The MAHA Commission’s May report cited excessive consumption of high-fructose corn syrup as a contributor to childhood obesity and other chronic conditions.
