Does Coke Zero use high-fructose corn syrup?

November 13, 2025 •

2 min read

According to The Coca-Cola Company, Coke Zero (now Coca-Cola Zero Sugar) does not contain high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS). Instead, it is sweetened with a blend of artificial sweeteners, specifically aspartame and acesulfame potassium, to provide its characteristic taste with zero sugar and zero calories.

Quick Summary

Coke Zero (Coca-Cola Zero Sugar) does not contain high-fructose corn syrup; it uses artificial sweeteners like aspartame and acesulfame potassium for its zero-calorie sweetness. Regular Coca-Cola, however, is typically sweetened with HFCS in the United States.

Key Points

No High-Fructose Corn Syrup: Coke Zero Sugar is sweetened exclusively with a blend of artificial, low-calorie sweeteners, not HFCS.
Artificial Sweetener Blend: The primary sweeteners in Coke Zero are aspartame and acesulfame potassium (Ace-K).
Mimics Original Taste: The specific combination of artificial sweeteners is intended to make Coke Zero taste closer to regular Coke than Diet Coke does.
Zero Calories, Zero Sugar: By using artificial sweeteners, Coke Zero contains no sugar and no calories, unlike regular Coca-Cola.
Regular Coke Uses HFCS: In the United States, regular Coca-Cola is typically sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup, a key difference from the zero-sugar version.
Health Considerations: Both HFCS and artificial sweeteners have ongoing health debates, with experts recommending moderation for all sweetened beverages.

Coke Zero vs. Regular Coke: Understanding the Sweetener Difference

Many consumers are curious about the ingredients in their favorite beverages, especially when comparing standard and zero-sugar options. A common question is, "Does Coke Zero use high-fructose corn syrup?" The short answer is no, but to understand why, it's essential to look at the differences between Coke Zero Sugar and its full-sugar counterpart, Coca-Cola Original Taste. While regular Coca-Cola in the U.S. is sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup, Coke Zero relies entirely on non-nutritive, artificial sweeteners to achieve its flavor.

The Role of Artificial Sweeteners in Coke Zero

Coke Zero Sugar is specifically designed to replicate the taste of original Coca-Cola without the sugar or calories. To accomplish this, The Coca-Cola Company utilizes a combination of two artificial sweeteners.

Aspartame: A low-calorie sweetener about 200 times sweeter than sugar, made from aspartic acid and phenylalanine. A warning is required for individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU).
Acesulfame Potassium (Ace-K): Also about 200 times sweeter than sugar and used in combination with aspartame to improve flavor and reduce aftertaste.

Why The Coca-Cola Company Uses Different Sweeteners

High-fructose corn syrup became popular in the 1970s as a stable and cost-effective option. For zero-sugar drinks, artificial sweeteners provide sweetness without calories. The blend of aspartame and Ace-K in Coke Zero aims for a taste closer to classic Coke than Diet Coke.

A Comparative Look at Cola Sweeteners

Here is a comparison of sweeteners in various Coca-Cola products:


Feature	Coca-Cola Original Taste	Coke Zero Sugar	Diet Coke
Primary Sweeteners	High-fructose corn syrup (U.S.) or Cane Sugar (other regions)	Aspartame & Acesulfame Potassium	Aspartame
Calories per serving	~140 (12 oz can)	0	0
Sugar Content	Significant (39g in 12 oz can)	0g	0g
Taste Profile	Classic, full-sugar cola taste	Tries to taste more like Original Coca-Cola	Lighter, distinct taste (based on 'New Coke' formula)
Carbohydrates	Significant	0g	0g

The Health Debate: HFCS vs. Artificial Sweeteners

Regular HFCS consumption adds significant sugar and calories, potentially contributing to weight gain and increased risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease. Reducing overall sugar intake is recommended. While artificial sweeteners are calorie-free, their long-term effects are debated. Some studies suggest links to changes in gut microbiome. However, the FDA considers sweeteners like aspartame and Ace-K safe in moderation. Experts recommend moderation for all sweetened beverages. Unsweetened options like sparkling water or tea are alternatives.

Conclusion

Coke Zero Sugar does not contain high-fructose corn syrup, unlike regular Coca-Cola. It uses aspartame and acesulfame potassium for its zero-sugar, zero-calorie formula. This creates a distinct taste compared to Diet Coke. While Coke Zero helps reduce sugar and calorie intake, the health effects of artificial sweeteners are still debated. Consumers should check labels and consider dietary goals. More information is available on The Coca-Cola Company's website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Coke Zero (Coca-Cola Zero Sugar) is sweetened with a blend of two artificial sweeteners: aspartame and acesulfame potassium (Ace-K).

The Coca-Cola Company, along with many other beverage manufacturers, started using high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) in the 1970s and 80s because it was a more cost-effective and stable sweetener than cane sugar in the U.S. market.

Coke Zero is a zero-calorie, zero-sugar option, making it a better choice for those looking to reduce their calorie or sugar intake. However, some studies question the long-term health effects of artificial sweeteners, so moderation is key.

Yes, there is a distinct taste difference. While both are sugar-free, Coke Zero's sweetener blend is formulated to taste more like regular Coca-Cola, whereas Diet Coke has a lighter, unique flavor profile.

The artificial sweeteners used in Coke Zero, aspartame and acesulfame potassium, have been reviewed and deemed safe for consumption by major regulatory bodies like the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). However, some research suggests potential negative long-term effects, and a label is included for individuals with PKU.

No, individuals with the rare genetic disorder phenylketonuria (PKU) must avoid products containing phenylalanine, one of the components of the aspartame used in Coke Zero. A warning label is included on all packaging.

No, Coke Zero was introduced as a zero-sugar beverage in 2005 (later renamed Coca-Cola Zero Sugar), and it has never used high-fructose corn syrup as a sweetener.