The History of Coca Cola
Coca Cola is one of the most popular soft drinks in the world. It was first created in Atlanta, Georgia in 1886 by a pharmacist named John Pemberton. The original formula contained cocaine, but this ingredient was removed in 1903. Since then, the recipe for Coca Cola has been a closely guarded secret.
The Use of High Fructose Corn Syrup
In the early days of Coca Cola, sugar was the main sweetener used in the drink. However, in the 1980s, the company began to switch to high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) as a cheaper alternative to sugar. HFCS is a type of sweetener that is made from corn syrup.
The Benefits of High Fructose Corn Syrup
There are several benefits to using HFCS in soft drinks like Coca Cola. Firstly, it is cheaper than sugar, which helps to keep the cost of the drink down. Secondly, it is easier to transport and store than sugar, as it is a liquid rather than a solid. Finally, it has a longer shelf life than sugar, which means that the drink can be stored for longer periods of time.
The Controversy Surrounding High Fructose Corn Syrup
Despite its benefits, there has been controversy surrounding the use of HFCS in soft drinks. Some studies have suggested that HFCS may be linked to obesity and other health problems. As a result, many people have started to avoid products that contain HFCS and have called for soft drink companies to switch back to using sugar.
Coca Cola's Response
Coca Cola has responded to the controversy surrounding HFCS by stating that the sweetener is safe to consume in moderation. The company has also started to introduce new products that use natural sweeteners like stevia and cane sugar. However, the majority of Coca Cola products still contain HFCS.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Coca Cola started using high fructose corn syrup in the 1980s as a cheaper alternative to sugar. While there has been controversy surrounding the use of HFCS in soft drinks, Coca Cola has continued to use the sweetener in the majority of its products. However, the company has also started to introduce new products that use natural sweeteners in response to consumer demand.
