Is Coke Zero Sugar Gluten Free?

The Ingredient Breakdown

As a food scientist, I scrutinize every component of what we consume. When analyzing Coke Zero Sugar, the formula is designed to mimic the classic taste without the sugar or gluten. The primary ingredients are carbonated water, which is naturally gluten-free, and caramel color. While caramel color is derived from carbohydrates, in the US, the source is typically corn or sugar, not wheat or barley, making it safe for a gluten-free diet.

The sweetening system consists of aspartame and acesulfame potassium (Ace-K). These are artificial sweeteners synthesized chemically, not extracted from grains, so they pose no gluten risk. The flavor profile is maintained by natural flavors and phosphoric acid. The term 'natural flavors' can sometimes be a gray area in food science, but in sodas, these are typically derived from essential oils or extracts that are not gluten-based. Finally, preservatives like potassium benzoate and potassium citrate are mineral salts and are safe.

Nutritional Value

From a nutritional standpoint, Coke Zero Sugar is defined by what it lacks: calories, sugar, and fat. A standard 12oz can contains 0 calories and 0g of sugar. This makes it an attractive option for those strictly monitoring their caloric intake or managing diabetes. However, the presence of artificial sweeteners like aspartame and acesulfame potassium is a point of contention for some health-conscious consumers. While regulatory bodies deem them safe, some individuals prefer to avoid them. In terms of fitting into a diet, it fits easily into low-carb or keto frameworks due to the zero-carb count, but it offers no nutritional value in terms of vitamins or minerals.