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5,891 studies cited
3,215 foods measured
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Every claim cited to PubMed

Coca-cola, Diet Coke

Coca-Cola

By the Ration Editorial Team · Reviewed against primary research

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

Nutrition

Calories: 0 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

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

Added SugarAdded sucrose; the dose makes the poison and packaged doses run high.medium

Caramel Color IIIAmmonia-process caramel contains 2-/4-methylimidazole, a possible carcinogen.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

Potassium BenzoateBenzoate class: benzene-formation potential with vitamin C.medium

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

Citric AcidUbiquitous acidulant; the citrate is identical to endogenous metabolite.low

Full ingredients

CARBONATED WATER, CARAMEL COLOR, ASPARTAME, PHOSPHORIC ACID, POTASSIUM BENZOATE (TO PROTECT TASTE), NATURAL FLAVORS, CITRIC ACID, CAFFEINE. PHENYLKETONURICS: CONTAINS PHENYLALANINE NO CALORIES, NO SUGAR

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