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Coca Cola, Coca-cola Zero

Coca Cola

By the Ration Editorial Team · Reviewed against primary research

Coca Cola, Coca-cola Zero contains 7 additives worth knowing about, including at least one rated high risk.

Nutrition

Calories: 0.2 kcal
Protein: 0 g
Carbs: 0 g
Fat: 0 g

Per 100 g, from Open Food Facts.

Additives

Each additive links to its full risk profile.

AspartameIARC classified aspartame possibly carcinogenic (2B) in 2023; also the WHO NNS caution. PKU risk is absolute.high

CyclamateBanned in the US since 1970 over bladder-tumor findings; still permitted in the EU.high

Acesulfame-KNon-nutritive sweetener; WHO 2023 advises against NNS for weight control, microbiome signals in humans.medium

Added CaffeineAdded (not brewed) caffeine in formulated products; dosing is easy to stack unknowingly.medium

Caramel Color IVSulfite-ammonia caramel (colas); 4-MEI content drove California Prop 65 limits.medium

Natural FlavorsUndisclosed proprietary mixtures — dozens of solvents/carriers allowed under one label; opacity is the issue.medium

Phosphoric AcidCola acid; high inorganic phosphate intake is linked to vascular and bone effects, especially with poor kidney function.medium

Caramel Color IPlain caramel made without ammonia; the benign end of the caramel class.low

Carbon DioxideCarbonation gas.low

Sodium CitratesCitrate buffer salt.low

Steviol GlycosidesPlant-derived sweetener with the cleanest current evidence among NNS.low

Full ingredients

water, carbon dioxide, caramel coloring E-150d, acidulant phosphoric acid, sweeteners (sodium cyclamate, acesulfame K, aspartame and enzymatically produced steviol glycosides), natural flavors, caffeine flavoring, and acidity regulator (sodium citrates). Contains a source of phenylalanine.

Product data from Open Food Facts. Additive risk ratings from the Ration additive database.