Last month, Coca-Cola announced that they will be changing the recipe of their Coca-Cola Zero Sugar beverage. Needless to say, avid Coke-lovers were not happy campers after the news travelled around social media, much to their dismay.
Announcing the new and improved Coca-Cola® Zero Sugar with an updated look and an even more delicious and refreshing taste. Learn more about how we’re continuing to meet the expectations of our consumers: https://t.co/w8UDarQTbO pic.twitter.com/3SUfXWayEc
— The Coca-Cola Co. (@CocaColaCo) July 13, 2021
New can. New formula. Introducing the new and improved Coke Zero Sugar. Now more delicious. #BestCokeEver pic.twitter.com/wq4z01WF7s
— Coca-Cola (@CocaCola) July 13, 2021
It seems like Coca-Cola’s efforts to provide “an even more delicious and refreshing taste” were in vain after Twitter users started lashing out, saying that the new and improved Coke Zero Sugar has an “artificially sweet taste” while someone else described it in one powerful word – “horrible.”
The new drink has been available on the international market for over a month now. Meanwhile, in a statement, Frontline marketing director of the South African franchise, Michelle Cloete said that they had seen increased growth of the Coca-Cola No Sugar brand in the country since launching the new recipe in 2016.
“Product design is one of the first tangible elements that a consumer engages with… We want everyone who comes into contact with the Coca-Cola No Sugar improved formulation to have an all-encompassing experience.
“One that is led by a crispier, more delicious, and refreshing first sip, still with zero calories,” she said.
“The introduction of Coca-Cola No Sugar is in line with more comprehensive actions the company is undertaking to evolve our recipes, help reduce sugar in its soft drink portfolio and offer consumers a choice of low and no-sugar drinks, including smaller pack sizes,” Cloete adds.
Whether the public shares these sentiments is a different story. Here are some of the reactions:
Coke Zero Sugar was good & it’s pretty much the only soda I drink now. I have not tried the updated version & I’m really worried about it because it didn’t need to change. I really hope you didn’t ruin it and I will try it. Here’s hoping!
— Shannon Black?Sullivan King?FluxPavillion?IlanB (@Shannon_Breezy1) July 14, 2021
I still remember the New Coke disaster that resulted in Coke Classic being brought back. Forgive my lack of faith as you tinker with a perfectly fine product I already enjoy.
— Sean Cobb (@LongClawTiger) July 16, 2021
Just tried it. It has an artificially sweet taste, and I really don’t like it at all. This was my go to drink, not sure why you messed with something that wasn’t broken, but doubt I’ll be buying it in future and may try Pepsi again. Please consider changing it back.
— Penny Rabey (@pennyrabey) August 28, 2021
Had my first Coke Zero Sugar after years of enjoying Coke Zero. No enjoyment at all. Felt like a chore to drink. Leaves an aftertaste like cough syrup. I poured the last third out. It’s absolutely awful.
— audible sci (@scigrump) August 16, 2021
Haven’t learned from the last time?
— Gophergutz (@Gophergutz1) July 14, 2021
Nooooo. It’s great as is. ?
— Kat (@kittyfu93) July 15, 2021
Just drank part of one. Why? Why? Why? Did you mess with perfection? I’m starting a prayer chain to have the original flavor returned. It now tastes very bland/flat. One of the few things I drink, and you ruined it. Remember the saying,” Learn from the past.”
— Theresa Collins Ricker (@ricker_theresa) July 16, 2021
It tasted HORRIBLE. BRING BACK THE ORIGINAL COKE ZERO!
— Shawna L Mica (@ShawnaMica) August 15, 2021
Picture: Twitter / @erickhill