A recent study draws attention to the harmful effects of a sugar replacement called erythritol and soda lovers are curious to know if the sweetener is added to Coke Zero or Diet Coke.
When Elon Musk joked about buying Coca-Cola, the myth claiming the presence of cocaine in the soda resurfaced, which we had previously explained.
And now, another substance – erythritol – which is reportedly used to “add bulk or sweeten monk fruit and keto reduced-sugar products,” has been linked to causing serious health issues, including the risk of stroke, blood clotting, and heart attack.
So, here’s the truth about the sweeteners used in select Coca-Cola drinks.
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Is erythritol used in Coke Zero or Diet Coke as a sweetener?
No, erythritol isn’t used as a sweetener in Coke Zero or Diet Coke.
According to the company’s official website, a sugar alternative called Aspartame is used in some of its products including Coke Zero and Diet Coke. Below is the list of all of its drinks containing the sweetner.
Coke Zero SugarDiet Barq’sDiet CokeDiet Coke Feisty CherryFanta ZeroFrescaGold Peak Diet TeaMello Yello ZeroMinute Maid LightPibb ZeroSeagrams Ginger Ale Zero SugarSprite Zero
The substance is used as an alternative to real sugar to ensure it provides low or no sugar calories option. Reportedly, it hasn’t been linked with any serious side effects or health problems, unlike erythritol.
However, your classic Coca-Cola, on the other hand, is sweetened with high fructose corn syrup or cane sugar depending on the region you live in.
What is erythritol?
Erythritol is one of the names for sugar alcohols that are used in food items labeled “sugar-free” or no sugar added”, according to Peace Health.
It is believed to consist of carbohydrates and calories despite being deemed “sugar-free”. It reportedly can cause side effects in people with other underlying health conditions as it can spike blood sugar levels.
Erythritol is found naturally in some foods like wine, beer, and even cheese when they ferment.
The same can also be mixed with other sweetening agents in some products to achieve the desired result or sweetness.
With a…