Is Trump Going Kosher?
Trump claims Coke will ditch corn syrup for cane sugar, inspired by Mexico’s (Kosher for Passover) classic recipe, sparking health debates, trade drama, and social media fizz.
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President Donald Trump stirred up a soda storm, claiming he’s persuaded Coca-Cola to swap high-fructose corn syrup for cane sugar in its U.S. drinks, inspired by the crisp taste of Mexico’s Kosher for Passover Coke. The man who’s rarely seen without a Diet Coke in hand is now pitching a sweetener overhaul, and it’s got people wondering if he’s eyeing a kosher certification or just a new headline.
Trump announced the supposed victory on Truth Social, writing, “I have been speaking to Coca-Cola about using REAL Cane Sugar in Coke in the United States, and they have agreed to do so. I’d like to thank all of those in authority at Coca-Cola. This will be a very good move by them. You’ll see. It’s just better!” Coca-Cola, however, played it coy, responding, “We appreciate President Trump’s enthusiasm for our iconic Coca-Cola brand. More details on new innovative offerings… will be shared soon.” In other words, they’re keeping their recipe cards close to the chest.
The idea isn’t as far-fetched as it sounds. Mexican Coca-Cola, made with cane sugar, is a favorite among soda fans and a Passover staple for observant Jews avoiding corn-based products. Trump’s push ties into his Make America Healthy Again initiative, led by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who’s criticized HFCS as a factor in childhood obesity. A May 2025 MAHA Commission report flagged HFCS as a health concern, though experts note cane sugar isn’t much different nutritionally, both pack about 39 grams of sugar per 12-ounce can, close to the daily limit.
Not everyone’s cheering. The Corn Refiners Association’s CEO, John Bode, called the switch a “job-killing” move that could hurt U.S. farmers and boost imports from cane sugar producers like Brazil, where Trump’s also proposed a 50% tariff. It’s a bit of a head-scratcher, especially since Trump’s home state of Florida grows sugarcane, raising questions about whether this is about health or local business.
Social media’s buzzing with light-hearted jabs. “Trump wants kosher Coke now? What’s next, a Passover seder at Mar-a-Lago?” one X user quipped. Another suggested a “MAGA Cola” bottle with a gold cap. Some Jewish users noted Mexican Coke’s year-round appeal, with one tweeting, “It’s not just for Passover, it’s just better.” Coca-Cola’s no stranger to cane sugar, producing it for Passover and markets like Mexico, but swapping it nationwide is tricky. HFCS is cheaper, thanks to corn subsidies and sugar tariffs.
Trump’s cozy with Coca-Cola CEO James Quincey, who gifted him a commemorative Inaugural Diet Coke bottle in January. Whether this is a serious health push or a quirky flex, Coca-Cola’s staying mum, likely hoping the fizz settles.
For now, Americans will keep sipping their HFCS-sweetened Coke, wondering if Trump’s sweet talk will change the recipe.