ATLANTA / TORONTO — Coca-Cola has officially launched its new cane sugar version of the iconic soft drink in select U.S. cities, following months of buzz and a public endorsement from U.S. President Donald Trump — but the new formula won’t be making its way to Canada anytime soon.
The company confirmed that the cane sugar Coke, made without high-fructose corn syrup, will be available exclusively in the United States this fall as part of its “ongoing innovation agenda.”
“As part of its ongoing innovation agenda, this fall in the United States, the company plans to launch an offering made with U.S. cane sugar to expand its Trademark Coca-Cola product range,” a Coca-Cola spokesperson said in an email to Metroland Media. “This addition is designed to complement the company’s strong core portfolio and offer more choices across occasions and preferences.”
Trump, who has publicly expressed his preference for “real cane sugar Coke” over corn syrup-sweetened versions, hailed the launch earlier this year as a “return to the original American taste.”
Why Canada Is Left Out
Coca-Cola confirmed that the cane sugar soda will be U.S.-only, with no current plans to bottle or distribute it in Canada. Canadian consumers looking to try a similar product can still purchase imported Coca-Cola de Mexico, which is made with natural cane sugar and no corn syrup.
The Mexican Coke, sold in distinctive glass bottles, can be found at Walmart, Metro, Loblaw, Valu-Mart, Real Canadian Superstore, Wholesale Club, and Fortinos stores across Ontario, typically priced between $7.50 and $9 for a four-pack.
Is Cane Sugar Healthier?
Health experts say the switch from high-fructose corn syrup to cane sugar doesn’t make Coke any healthier. Diabetes Canada notes that all added sugars — whether white, brown, cane, honey, or maple — affect blood sugar the same way and contain similar calories.
Hamilton Health Sciences recommends limiting children’s consumption of sodas, juices, and sweetened beverages to no more than two servings per week, regardless of the type of sugar used.