Coca-Cola to Release Cane Sugar Version in the US After Trump Endorsement

Trump’s taste preferences trigger product launch as ‘Mexican Coke’ gains popularity among American consumers

Coca-Cola to Launch New Cane Sugar Variant in US

Coca-Cola is set to roll out a new version of its classic drink in the United States made with cane sugar, following public praise from President Donald Trump. The move comes just days after Trump revealed on his Truth Social platform that he had spoken directly with the company, urging them to adopt cane sugar in their US formulation.

What Sparked the Move?

The classic Coca-Cola sold in Mexico has long used cane sugar, which many claim delivers a smoother, richer taste compared to the high-fructose corn syrup variant used in the US since the 1980s. Trump, a long-time fan of the brand, declared:

“It’s just better!”

This public endorsement — and Trump's claim of a personal conversation with Coca-Cola executives — appears to have nudged the company into action.

Company Confirmation and Market Strategy

In its latest earnings report, Coca-Cola confirmed that a cane sugar-based version of its signature drink will be available in the US later this year. The company says this new product will complement its current offerings, rather than replace existing lines.

Chairman and CEO James Quincey said:

“We’re expanding our range to reflect consumer demand for differentiated experiences. This is about choice and occasion.”

Quick Facts: Coca-Cola’s Cane Sugar Initiative

• The cane sugar version will launch in the US market later this year.
• It mirrors the "Mexican Coke", widely considered superior in taste by enthusiasts.
• The drink will be an addition to the brand’s core range, not a replacement.
• The move reflects a broader strategy to diversify offerings in response to consumer trends.

Political and Health Implications

This change aligns with President Trump’s "Make America Healthy Again" (MAHA) initiative, aimed at reducing unhealthy ingredients in everyday food and drink products. A MAHA Commission report had previously criticised high-fructose corn syrup as a potential contributor to childhood obesity.

While nutrition experts argue that both cane sugar and corn syrup have similar health impacts, the marketing appeal of "natural" cane sugar could boost public perception — and sales.

Trump's Personal Coke Connection

Trump’s love affair with Coca-Cola is well-documented. He famously reinstalled the Diet Coke button in the Oval Office during his second term. The president even joked in the past that although Coca-Cola wasn’t happy with him, he would "still keep drinking that garbage".

Earlier this year, Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey visited Mar-a-Lago to present Trump with a custom commemorative bottle — a move that underlines the political and branding significance of the relationship.

Sales Outlook: Will Coke Benefit?

Trump’s public support and the nostalgic appeal of cane sugar could drive a notable spike in Coca-Cola sales — particularly among Republican and traditionalist consumer bases. As nostalgia and 'authentic taste' become bigger selling points in the competitive drinks market, Coca-Cola could see a commercial uplift.

Potential impacts on sales:

• Increased demand from “Make America Great Again” loyalists
• Expanded retail and marketing presence for the cane sugar variant
• Greater market share among health-conscious or label-reading consumers

Investor Takeaway

The launch could provide a near-term sales bump and positive PR, especially as Coca-Cola continues to fend off challenges from alternative drink brands. However, the long-term impact on margins remains unclear, as cane sugar is more costly than high-fructose corn syrup. If the launch succeeds, investors could see a short-term lift in stock performance — particularly in North American markets.

Watch this space. If Trump's influence continues to steer consumer trends, this could be the first of many nostalgic product revivals.

Sources: (SKY.com, Reuters.com)