The Modern Sugar Face-Off: Irn Bru vs. Coke
For decades, Irn Bru and Coca-Cola were both known for their high sugar content, but their nutritional profiles have diverged dramatically in recent years. The key turning point was the introduction of the UK's 'sugar tax' in 2018, which incentivised manufacturers to reduce the sugar in their products to avoid a higher levy.
AG Barr, the makers of Irn Bru, opted to reformulate their flagship drink, much to the initial consternation of some hardcore fans. The new recipe replaced a large portion of the sugar with artificial sweeteners like aspartame and acesulfame-potassium. Coca-Cola, however, chose to maintain its original full-sugar recipe, offering no-sugar alternatives like Diet Coke and Coke Zero instead. This strategic decision means the two sodas are no longer comparable in terms of sugar concentration.
Comparing the Sugar by Volume
To get a clear picture of the difference, comparing the sugar content per 100ml is the most accurate method.
- Irn Bru (post-2018): Contains approximately 4.5g of sugar per 100ml.
- Coca-Cola (Original Taste): Contains approximately 10.6g of sugar per 100ml.
This means that per 100ml, standard Coca-Cola has more than double the sugar of the current Irn Bru. For a standard 330ml can, the difference is even more stark:
- Irn Bru (330ml can): Around 15g of sugar.
- Coca-Cola (330ml can): Around 35g of sugar.
The Impact of Reformulation on Taste and Health
The reformulation of Irn Bru was a controversial move, leading to a vocal backlash from loyalists who felt the taste had been compromised. While some argue the flavor profile has changed, the health benefits of consuming significantly less sugar are undeniable.
From a health perspective, the differences are considerable. A 330ml can of Coke contains almost your entire recommended daily intake of free sugars. By comparison, a can of the new Irn Bru represents a much smaller proportion. The presence of artificial sweeteners in the new Irn Bru also means that while the sugar is lower, it is no longer a 'sugar-only' beverage. Coca-Cola's choice to retain the original recipe with no sweeteners means consumers know exactly what they are getting: a full-sugar, high-calorie product. This gives consumers a clear choice between a lower-sugar, artificially sweetened product and a classic, full-sugar one.
Historical Context: Irn Bru Before the Sugar Tax
It is important to remember that this significant sugar gap is a recent development. Prior to the 2018 reformulation, Irn Bru's sugar content was very similar to Coca-Cola's, with some sources reporting it having over 30 grams of sugar per can. If you're comparing older cans or older memories, the nutritional comparison is completely different. The decision to change the recipe was not taken lightly and represents a pivotal moment in the brand's history, driven by regulatory pressure and public health policy.
Comparison Table
| Metric | Irn Bru (Modern) | Coca-Cola (Original) |
|---|---|---|
| Sugar per 100ml | 4.5g | 10.6g |
| Sugar per 330ml Can | ~15g | ~35g |
| Energy per 100ml | ~19kcal | ~42kcal |
| Reformulation | Yes (2018) | No (Original recipe maintained) |
| Primary Sweeteners | Sugar & Aspartame | Sugar & High Fructose Corn Syrup (US) |
Conclusion
In summary, the sugar content of Irn Bru compared to Coke is no longer a close race. The 2018 reformulation of Irn Bru in response to the UK's 'sugar tax' has resulted in a drink with significantly less sugar than the standard, original Coca-Cola. While this change was met with mixed reactions from consumers, it has positioned Irn Bru as a lower-sugar alternative within the fizzy drinks market. The choice between the two now involves weighing a lower-sugar, artificially sweetened profile against a higher-sugar, classic option.
For more detailed nutritional information on Irn Bru, you can visit the official AG Barr website, where their current product information is displayed.
