Coca-Cola is pushing back after President Donald Trump claimed he had secured a deal for the company to replace high-fructose corn syrup with cane sugar in its U.S. beverages. “They have agreed to do so,” Trump posted on Truth Social, calling it a “very good move.”
Initially, Coca-Cola thanked Trump for his “enthusiasm” but stopped short of confirming any change. A follow-up statement defended its current formula, saying, “High fructose corn syrup is safe, has similar calories to table sugar, and is metabolized the same way.”
The company cited the American Medical Association’s stance that HFCS poses no greater obesity risk than other sweeteners.
Coca-Cola has used corn syrup in U.S. drinks since the 1980s, citing cost advantages tied to subsidies and tariffs. A full switch to cane sugar could impact trade and pricing in the $285 billion U.S. soft drink market.
The company said it will continue offering “innovative products.”
