Core Viewpoint - Former President Trump has requested Coca-Cola to switch its sweetener in the U.S. from high fructose corn syrup to cane sugar, raising questions about health implications and consumer preferences [2][5][26]. Group 1: Sweetener Comparison - High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) was first synthesized in 1957 and became widely used in the U.S. by the 1980s, accounting for nearly 40% of added sugars [8]. - In 2023, the price of cane sugar was approximately $8000 per ton, while the production of HFCS in China exceeded 7 million tons [8]. - Cane sugar is derived from sugarcane and sugar beets, while HFCS can be produced from any starchy plant, making it a more versatile and cost-effective option for manufacturers [14][16]. Group 2: Historical Context - Coca-Cola replaced cane sugar with HFCS in the U.S. in 1985, leading to significant consumer backlash, including the formation of protest groups [12][14]. - The "New Coke" launch in 1985 faced immediate criticism, with consumers claiming the new formula did not align with American values [12][14]. - Despite the protests, Coca-Cola prioritized cost savings over consumer preferences, as the two sweeteners are chemically similar once metabolized [16][18]. Group 3: Health Implications - Initially, HFCS was perceived as a healthier alternative due to its lower glycemic index, but recent studies have linked excessive consumption to health issues like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease [23][25]. - Trump's administration has criticized HFCS, with a special task force concluding it contributes to obesity and chronic diseases among children [25][26]. - The debate over sweeteners reflects broader concerns about sugar consumption, with recommendations suggesting daily added sugar intake should not exceed 50 grams [25][26]. Group 4: Market Dynamics - Coca-Cola's decision to consider a cane sugar version aligns with Trump's push for healthier options, potentially strengthening ties with the government [26][30]. - The U.S. sugar supply is currently composed of 30% cane sugar, and the shift could lead to increased production costs for Coca-Cola [26][30]. - The corn industry, which supplies HFCS, has expressed concerns that switching to cane sugar could lead to job losses and reduced farmer incomes [30].