可口可乐改配方风波揭开40年甜味剂暗战

Core Viewpoint - The ongoing debate over sweeteners in Coca-Cola products has been reignited by President Trump's announcement advocating for the use of real cane sugar in Coca-Cola sold in the U.S., which has led to speculation about potential changes in the company's formulation [2][3]. Sweetener Transition - Coca-Cola originally used cane sugar as the sole sweetener in its classic formula until the 1980s when high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) began to replace it due to lower production costs influenced by U.S. corn subsidy policies [3][4]. - By the 1980s, nearly 40% of added sugars in the U.S. market were HFCS, leading Coca-Cola to switch its U.S. product formulation from cane sugar to HFCS in 1984 [3][4]. Market Variations - In international markets such as Mexico, the UK, and Australia, Coca-Cola continues to use cane sugar, creating a distinct consumer preference for these products among American "cola enthusiasts" who often seek out Mexican cane sugar Coca-Cola [5][6]. - In contrast, domestic sugary beverages in China still predominantly use cane sugar, with brands like Kang Shifu maintaining cane sugar as the primary sweetener [4]. Flavor Differences - The flavor profiles of cane sugar and HFCS differ significantly; HFCS provides a quick burst of sweetness, while cane sugar offers a more prolonged and rounded sweetness experience [6]. - The chemical structures of the two sweeteners are distinct, with cane sugar being a disaccharide and HFCS being a mixture of monosaccharides [6]. Challenges of Reformulation - The likelihood of Coca-Cola fully reverting to cane sugar is low due to several challenges, including higher costs associated with cane sugar, the need to overhaul existing supply chains, and the influence of agricultural subsidy structures that favor corn production [7]. - Consumer taste preferences pose another hurdle, as many have become accustomed to the HFCS version of Coca-Cola, raising concerns about potential customer loss if the formulation changes [7].