Expert: Paul Wagner - 3/19/2009

Question
Hi:

I've heard that the original coca-cola contained a mixture of the juice of coca leaves, cane sugar, and kola.

Which part of the kola plant was used in the drink? I'm guessing the nut. Correct? If so, did the nut have to be ground and boiled before adding to the coke drink? If not, how was the part of the kola used altered before it was added to the drink.

Also, what are the proportions to which coca juice, kola, and cane sugar was used in the drink? How many parts of each?


Thanks,

Green

Answer
HI Green

Ha!  Yes, the very first recipes for Coca-Cola did apparently include part of the coca plant...but what you are asking for is one of the most legendary trade secrets in the history of US commerce.  The recipe for Coca-Cola is as tightly guarded a secret as the lauch codes for our nuclear missiles.  Sorry, but anyone who tells you they have the answer to this question is lying!

Paul Wagner