Coca-Cola(US:KO) 3 6 Ke·2025-05-23 00:08Core Viewpoint - The recent change in Sprite's formula, replacing sucrose with high fructose corn syrup (HFCS), has sparked significant discussion on social media, highlighting consumer awareness and potential health implications of sweetener choices [1][4][5]. Group 1: Formula Change - Sprite has quietly changed its formula, now using high fructose corn syrup instead of sucrose, which has led to widespread public discussion [1][4]. - The Coca-Cola Company had already made this change back in 2019 for several sugary beverages, including Sprite, Coke, and Fanta, with the transition being gradual and less noticeable [5]. Group 2: High Fructose Corn Syrup (HFCS) - HFCS, first synthesized in 1957, became commercially produced in the U.S. and gained significant market share by the 1980s, often replacing sucrose due to price fluctuations [7]. - In 2023, the price of sucrose was approximately 8000 yuan per ton, while China's production of HFCS exceeded 7 million tons, indicating its role as a substitute for sucrose [7]. Group 3: Health Implications - Initially, HFCS was considered healthier than sucrose due to its lower glycemic index (GI) and unique sweetness characteristics, but concerns have arisen regarding its long-term health effects [14][18]. - Studies have linked increased consumption of HFCS with rising obesity and diabetes rates in the U.S., leading to negative perceptions of HFCS as a health risk [18][20]. - The key issue is not the type of sugar consumed but the overall sugar intake, emphasizing the need for moderation rather than focusing solely on the type of sweetener [20].