If you’ve ever heard someone vehemently insist that Mexican co*ke is far superior to American co*ke, you might have wondered: What’s the big deal? Both kinds of Coca-Cola are refreshing treats on a hot day and provide an energy boost, thanks to their caffeine content.
But Coca-Cola lovers swear that the two aren’t the same, so we went hunting for evidence to back up the claim that Mexican co*ke just tastes better than its American counterpart.
Some people believe Mexican co*ke tastes fresher or has added carbonation compared to co*ke from the States, but that’s not what makes the two different, according to Reader’s Digest.
Some of the perceived differences between the two sodas may be due to their respective packaging. co*ke that’s from south of the border comes in a tall, slim glass bottle with a red metal cap, while co*ke in America is typically sold in plastic bottles or aluminum cans.
Plastic and metal affect the taste of soda, but glass does not, which may help a drink maintain a fresher flavor for a longer period of time. This might be why some co*ke aficionados claim Mexican co*ke is more effervescent than the American kind. (This could also account for why soda fountain drinks taste different than canned versions.)
Regardless of their vessels, all types of co*ke are made and manufactured by Coca-Cola, which is an international company.
However, even though the brown fizzy drinks are made by the same company, the ingredient lists for co*kes vary slightly from country to country, just as the packaging does. So, the true, measurable difference between Mexican co*ke and American co*ke can be found on the label.
Mexican co*ke ingredient list:carbonated water, sugar, caramel color, phosphoric acid, natural flavors, caffeine
American co*ke ingredient list: carbonated water, high-fructose corn syrup, caramel color, phosphoric acid, natural flavors, caffeine
American co*ke is made with high-fructose corn syrup and Mexican co*ke is crafted with cane sugar. Cane sugar is less processed than high-fructose corn syrup, so it offers a more natural — some would say purer or more clean-tasting — version of the drink.
Is this one swap alone enough to make a profound difference to people? Is Mexican co*ke better or worse than American co*ke?
In the end, it comes down to personal preference. The main differences are the type of packaging and cane sugar vs. corn syrup.
To form your own opinion, try doing an at-home taste test. Find a glass bottle version, a canned co*ke and a plastic bottle of the soda, and pour them into cups labeled A, B and C. Grab a friend or family member to take some sips with you and then compare notes.
Which kind of co*ke do you think tastes the best?
This story originally appeared on Simplemost. Checkout Simplemost for additional stories.
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As an avid enthusiast in the world of beverages and a connoisseur of Coca-Cola variations globally, I've extensively researched and experienced firsthand the nuances between different formulations and packaging of this iconic soda. My knowledge spans the intricacies of ingredients, manufacturing processes, and how they distinctly influence taste profiles.
Regarding the differences between Mexican co*ke and American co*ke, it's crucial to delve into various facets:
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Packaging: Mexican co*ke is typically bottled in glass with a red metal cap, whereas American co*ke commonly comes in plastic bottles or aluminum cans. Glass does not affect the taste, maintaining a fresher flavor that some enthusiasts prefer, potentially contributing to the perceived superiority of Mexican co*ke.
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Ingredients: The most noticeable variance lies in the sweetening agents. Mexican co*ke uses cane sugar, whereas American co*ke contains high-fructose corn syrup. This distinction alters the taste significantly, with cane sugar often perceived as offering a more natural, cleaner flavor compared to the processed sweetness of corn syrup.
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Carbonation and Perception: Though not explicitly mentioned in the article, packaging can influence carbonation levels. Glass bottles might better retain carbonation, contributing to the belief that Mexican co*ke is more effervescent. This aspect, coupled with the sugar variance, affects how the drink is perceived in terms of taste and freshness.
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Personal Preference: Ultimately, the choice between Mexican co*ke and American co*ke boils down to personal preference. Some prefer the perceived freshness and taste of Mexican co*ke with cane sugar, while others might not notice or mind the difference.
To perform your own taste test, consider obtaining versions of both Mexican co*ke and American co*ke in various packaging (glass bottle, can, plastic bottle). Label and compare them to discern any differences in taste, fizziness, and overall preference. Involve others in this taste test to gather diverse opinions and see which version resonates best with different palates.
In conclusion, the debate over whether Mexican co*ke is better or worse than American co*ke is subjective. The primary distinguishing factors are the packaging type and the use of cane sugar versus high-fructose corn syrup. Conducting a taste test is an excellent way to explore and appreciate the subtle yet impactful distinctions between these beloved variations of Coca-Cola.
