Does Coca-Cola Zero contain dairy or gluten?

No, Coca-Cola Zero does not contain dairy or gluten ingredients. It is safe for those with lactose intolerance and celiac disease.

Is Coca-Cola Zero good for weight loss?

Because it has zero calories, it can fit into a calorie-controlled diet. However, relying solely on diet sodas is not a sustainable weight loss strategy.

Where can I buy Coca-Cola Zero?

Coca-Cola Zero is widely available at major grocery stores, convenience stores, gas stations, and online retailers like Amazon.

Is Coca-Cola Zero safe for kids?

While it is gluten-free, Coca-Cola Zero contains caffeine. Pediatric health organizations generally recommend limiting caffeine intake in children.

Is Coca-Cola Zero Gluten Free?

Yes, Coca-Cola Zero is gluten-free. For those managing celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, finding a safe soda can be a relief. This article breaks down the ingredients to explain why this popular zero-sugar beverage is considered safe for a gluten-free diet.

The Ingredient Breakdown

When determining if a product is safe for those with celiac disease, we must look beyond the obvious and investigate the source of every additive. Coca-Cola Zero Sugar relies on a simple yet scientifically complex list of ingredients to deliver its signature taste without the sugar. Let's analyze the key components.

First, the base ingredients—water and carbon dioxide—are naturally gluten-free and pose no risk. The primary concern for many consumers is the caramel coloring (E-150d). While the name might remind one of burnt wheat, the caramel coloring used in Coca-Cola is produced by heating carbohydrates. In the United States and Europe, these carbohydrates are typically derived from corn or sugar cane, not wheat. Therefore, the caramel coloring in Coca-Cola Zero is gluten-free.

The sweetening blend consists of sodium cyclamate, acesulfame K, aspartame, and enzymatically produced steviol glycosides. These are artificial and natural non-nutritive sweeteners. They are synthesized in laboratories or processed through enzymatic conversion, neither of which involves gluten-containing grains. It is worth noting that the 'Contains a source of phenylalanine' warning refers solely to the aspartame and has no relation to gluten.

Finally, the flavor profile is maintained by natural flavors, caffeine flavoring, and acidity regulators like phosphoric acid and sodium citrates. In the context of a soda, 'natural flavors' are derived from plant or synthetic sources that are highly processed and purified. There is no evidence to suggest that gluten is used in the flavoring system for Coca-Cola Zero. Consequently, the formulation is robustly free from gluten ingredients.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Coca-Cola Zero is designed to be a 'free' item in many macro-tracking diets. A standard 12 oz (355 ml) can contains 0 calories, 0g of fat, 0g of carbohydrates, and 0g of protein. This makes it an attractive option for those on ketogenic diets, intermittent fasting protocols, or simply looking to reduce their sugar intake.

However, as a food scientist, it is important to contextualize 'health.' While it fits within strict calorie limits, the high intensity of the sweeteners used—specifically the combination of aspartame and acesulfame potassium—can influence taste receptors and potentially maintain a craving for sweet foods. It is a safe hydration option for a gluten-free diet, but water remains the optimal choice for overall health.