Coca-Cola has confirmed plans to replace high-fructose corn syrup with cane sugar in many of its US soft drink products starting this autumn.
The move is expected to coincide with higher prices at retail level, as the company aims to protect profit margins in the face of mounting production costs and changing consumer preferences.
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New formula rollout to begin this autumn
The company announced that cane sugar Coca-Cola will begin appearing on U.S. shelves from autumn 2025.
The shift marks a significant change in formulation for the brand’s core soft drinks, which have relied on corn syrup in the US market for decades.
This transition will not apply to Diet Coke or Coke Zero Sugar, which remain unchanged. Coca-Cola has used cane sugar in some international markets and limited-edition domestic releases, such as the “Mexican Coke” variant, which has maintained a niche following.
Higher shelf prices expected as costs rise
Coca-Cola stated that the new formulation could result in a noticeable price increase at supermarkets and convenience stores. Executives cited elevated global sugar prices and supply chain volatility as key drivers.
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By GlobalDataRetail analysts say the price hikes may impact household purchasing habits, particularly amid broader inflationary pressure in the food and beverage sector.
The company’s latest earnings report showed resilient demand, but acknowledged that maintaining profitability would require “disciplined pricing” moving forward.
Consumer demand and political backdrop influence decision
The decision comes amid a broader cultural and political shift in the U.S. food landscape.
Consumer interest in natural ingredients and clean labels has increased over the past decade, with cane sugar often perceived as a less processed alternative to corn syrup.
The change also follows recent political developments, including former President Donald Trump’s public endorsement of cane sugar Coca-Cola, which he claims is “how Coke used to taste.”
While the company did not comment directly on Trump’s remarks, industry experts suggest such high-profile attention may have accelerated strategic planning.
As Coca-Cola prepares for the launch, major US retailers are expected to adjust shelf space and promotional strategies ahead of the reformulated drinks hitting stores later this year.
