Our top story an iconic American beverage is about to get a sweet makeover. Coca-Cola has confirmed it will roll out a new cane sugar-sweetened version of its trademark cola in the United States this fall a move already teased last week by President Donald Trump.
President Trump announced on social media that Coca-Cola had agreed to bring back real cane sugar to its flagship drink—a shift from the high-fructose corn syrup formula used in U.S. markets since the 1980s. Now, Coca-Cola’s top executive has confirmed the change is on the way.
Coca-Cola Chairman and CEO James Quincey told investors Tuesday that the company is expanding its lineup to offer what he called ‘differentiated experiences’ for consumers. ‘We appreciate the president’s enthusiasm for our brand,’ Quincey said, adding that the company is using the full ‘tool kit’ of sweeteners to meet changing preferences.
Coke has long sold cane sugar-sweetened beverages like Mexican Coke in the U.S., but this marks the first time in decades that its classic American cola will feature cane sugar domestically. Competitors PepsiCo and Dr Pepper have already been offering similar options since 2009.
In the same investor call, Quincey was asked whether a prebiotic or fiber-enhanced version of Coca-Cola could also hit American shelves. He pointed to an experimental Coke with added fiber currently being sold in Japan, saying the company is monitoring consumer interest closely.
Despite a modest 1% decline in global case volume, Coca-Cola’s earnings outperformed expectations in the second quarter. Revenue rose to $12.5 billion, with a significant 58% jump in net income—totaling $3.8 billion. Higher product pricing helped offset weaker demand in several international markets.
Coca-Cola Zero Sugar emerged as a standout, with case volumes surging 14%. However, traditional Coke remains the dominant choice globally.
In the U.S., the company is also recovering from a months-long consumer backlash among Hispanic customers. A viral video falsely accused Coke of reporting its own workers to immigration authorities. Quincey clarified the claim was untrue and said targeted marketing has helped restore confidence. Coke stock dipped 1% in early trading today despite the earnings beat. Looking ahead, the company now expects its full-year earnings to rise 8%—a revision upward from its spring outlook.
So, America—get ready to taste a touch of tradition. Coca-Cola’s cane sugar cola could soon be in your local cooler. Stay with us for more on how this move could shake up the soft drink industry.
Reporting by Katy Moore.
