Coca-Cola Launches New Soda Recipe After Almost 40 Years

For many, a Coke over ice is the perfect, refreshing drink. While Coca-Cola has released numerous variations over the years, like Cherry Coke, Vanilla Coke, Orange Cream Coke and Cherry Float Coke, the original flavor remains a classic. Now, after nearly four decades, Coca-Cola is changing its formula, and fans are taking notice.

For over a century, Coca-Cola's sweet and distinct flavor has made it a go-to carbonated beverage. Now, the company is offering a new option: Coca-Cola made with cane sugar. This updated version is available in 8-ounce glass bottles at retailers across the country. This marks the first major reintroduction of cane sugar in Coca-Cola products sold in the U.S. since the 1980s, when high-fructose corn syrup became the standard.

The cane sugar formula was initially introduced this fall in 12-ounce single-serve glass bottles, available at select restaurants nationwide. This launch followed Coca-Cola's July announcement that it would begin using cane sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup in specific products, responding to customer requests.

If you're concerned that the taste will be different from the Coca-Cola you know and love, don't worry. The familiar flavor is still there. Some consumers have compared it to Coca-Cola sold in Mexico, which is packaged in a glass bottle and uses cane sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup.

Enthusiasts on Reddit have noted that the new version of the soda has a distinct, pleasant taste.

One person wrote, “The Mexican version tastes more syrupy and sweet to me, while the U.S. version has more of a punch and is more acidic.”

Another added, “This version is the best. I’m almost glad it’s only 8 ounces because it makes you think about how you drink it.”