What Is Coke Zero, Anyway?
Coke Zero contains nine ingredients: carbonated water, Coca-Cola’s secret ‘natural flavorings’, caramel coloring, phosphoric acid, potassium benzoate, potassium citrate, acesulfame potassium and caffeine.
All those long names are a warning sign. This is not a natural drink, of course. Sure, sparkling water, caramel coloring and caffeine don’t sound that bad, but it’s the rest of the ingredients that get us thinking. Here’s all about these chemicals:
Phosphoric acid is a mild acid. It’s actually present in all soft drinks and responsible for that thirst-quenching tanginess. Potassium benzoate is a food preservative that inhibits the growth of mold and bacteria. Potassium citrate is used to regulate acidity. Finally, acesulfame potassium is a calorie-free sugar substitute.
