Sipping Culture: Mexican Coke Lovers React to Trump’s Cane Sugar Shift

With President Trump’s announcement that Coca-Cola will produce a cane sugar version in the U.S., enthusiasts from the Mexican-American community express skepticism about the change, fearing it won’t capture the original's authentic flavor.

As the U.S. considers a transition to cane sugar for Coca-Cola — a staple Mexican beverage — reactions from those who cherish the distinct taste of "Mexican Coke" are far from enthusiastic. Ivan Vasquez, owner of four Oaxacan restaurants in Southern California, is wary that the nuanced flavor of the drink, celebrated by many, might be lost in translation. He likens the inevitable difference to Tijuana tacos versus their California counterparts, asserting, “It's going to get close, but you’re always going to miss that flavor.”

This announcement follows President Trump's claim that Coca-Cola has agreed to return to traditional cane sugar, a product more commonly used across the globe, while the American market has relied heavily on corn syrup since the switch in the 1980s. The introduction of Mexican Coke to the United States in 2005 met with considerable enthusiasm; it is now widely available in areas with significant Hispanic populations and has cultivated a devoted fanbase.

In response to the brand's increasing popularity, some retailers are charging premium prices for Mexican Coke. For instance, a 355 milliliter glass bottle is sold at San Francisco’s Tahona Mercado for $3.50, juxtaposed against the significantly cheaper American counterpart online. As discussions about the flavor differences continue, opinions diverge, leaving many to wonder if the promised shift is a move towards authenticity or just marketing. The ongoing discourse reflects the deeper connections many feel towards the cultural significance of food and drink and how that flavor can evoke identity and nostalgia.