What is Coke?

Coca-Cola, or Coke, is a carbonated soft drink produced by The Coca-Cola Company. It is the most popular and widely consumed soft drink in the world, with over 360 billion glasses sold in 2019. The brand originated in Atlanta, Georgia, in 1886, when pharmacist Dr. John Pemberton introduced the flavorful beverage, which he marketed as a “brain tonic”. The recipe has gone through many changes over the years, with the current formulation having the most sugar of any popular soft drinks on the market.

History of Coke

Coke was first introduced in 1886, when pharmacist Dr. John Pemberton sold lemony-flavored syrup in the pharmacy he owned in Atlanta. One year later, businessman Asa Candler bought the formula from Pemberton and incorporated it as the Coca-Cola Company in 1892. The iconic glass bottle was designed in 1915, the same year that Candler retired and sold the business to a group of investors. In the early days, Coke was advertised as a tonic that could boost energy and relieve headaches. Coke was also sold as an eruption of drinkable liquid bubbles, with customers expected to add their favorite flavorings such as sugar, lemon or even Coca-Cola syrup.

The Flavors of Coke

Since then, more than 500 different flavors of Coke have been produced, including different dimensions of the classic beverage, such as Coca-Cola Zero Sugar and Diet Coke. Some of the most well-known flavors include Cherry Coke, Vanilla Coke, and Lime Coke. Other lesser-known flavors include Orange Coke, Peach Coke, and even Strawberry Coke. In addition to its many flavors, Coke has also released several limited-edition flavors over the years, such as Apricot Coke, Apple-Honey Coke, and Lemon-Lime Coke.

Coca-Cola is often seen as the gold standard for soft drinks and has remained the most popular soft drink in the world for more than 140 years. Its secret recipe and reliable flavor have become an integral part of pop culture and remain one of the most recognizable brands in the world.