Coke

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Alternative names
Etymology
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Status

Coke, also known as Coca-Cola, is a carbonated soft drink manufactured by The Coca-Cola Company. Originally intended as a patent medicine when it was invented in the late 19th century by John Stith Pemberton, Coke was bought out by businessman Asa Griggs Candler, whose marketing tactics led Coca-Cola to its dominance of the world soft-drink market throughout the 20th century.

History

The drink was created in 1886 by John Stith Pemberton, a pharmacist in Atlanta, Georgia, who initially concocted the beverage as a coca wine. Later, he developed a non-alcoholic version that he called "Coca-Cola". The name was suggested by Pemberton's bookkeeper, Frank Robinson, who also penned the now-famous Spencerian script logo. The soft drink was first sold to the public at the soda fountain in Jacob's Pharmacy in Atlanta on May 8, 1886.

Ingredients

The primary taste of Coca-Cola comes from vanilla and cinnamon with traces of citrus and spices. Coke's formula remains a closely guarded secret, known as "Merchandise 7X". The exact formula of Coca-Cola's natural flavorings is still a trade secret, although a variety of reported recipes and experimental recreations have been published.

Production

Coca-Cola is produced by mixing its dry ingredient (the Coca-Cola concentrate) with filtered water and sweeteners. The mixture is then carbonated by adding carbon dioxide under pressure and then bottled or canned in manufacturing plants around the world.

Cultural Impact

Coca-Cola has had a significant impact on popular culture, particularly in the United States. It is frequently credited with the invention of the modern image of Santa Claus as an old man in a red and white suit. Coca-Cola has also been a frequent subject of controversies and lawsuits, some of which involve health issues, the competitive pressures between its major competitors, and its impact on the environment.

Variants

Over the years, The Coca-Cola Company has released various variants of Coca-Cola, including:

• Diet Coke
• Coca-Cola Zero Sugar
• Cherry Coke
• Vanilla Coke
• Coca-Cola with Lemon
• Coca-Cola with Coffee

See also

• Pepsi
• Soft drink
• List of Coca-Cola brands