– 8 oz coca-cola®
An 8 oz serving of Coca-Cola contains approximately 140 calories, 39 grams of carbohydrates (primarily from added sugars), and 34 mg of caffeine. The beverage provides no significant protein, fiber, or essential nutrients, and should be considered primarily as a source of carbohydrates and caffeine.
About
Coca-Cola is a carbonated soft drink produced by The Coca-Cola Company, first formulated in Atlanta, Georgia in 1886. The beverage is a sweetened cola made from carbonated water, high fructose corn syrup (or sugar in some markets), caramel color, phosphoric acid, natural flavors, and caffeine. The exact formula remains proprietary, though the flavor profile is derived from a blend of citrus oils, spices, and vanilla notes that define the cola category. Coca-Cola is typically dark brown in color with a distinct sweet, slightly acidic taste and moderate carbonation level.
The drink exists in numerous variants, including Diet Coke (sugar-free), Coca-Cola Zero Sugar (reduced-calorie), and regional specialty versions, reflecting market adaptation across different consumer preferences and regulatory environments worldwide.
Culinary Uses
Coca-Cola functions as both a beverage consumed directly and as a culinary ingredient in cooking and baking. In the kitchen, it is used to deglaze pan sauces, particularly for ham, pork, and poultry dishes, where its sweetness and acidity create balanced glazes. The beverage appears in marinades for meat, providing enzymatic properties from the phosphoric acid that aid in tenderization. In baking and confectionery, Coca-Cola is incorporated into cake batters, frostings, and sauces, where its carbonation contributes to crumb structure and its flavor adds subtle cola notes. Regional dishes, particularly in American cuisine, feature Coca-Cola-based preparations such as cola-braised meats and cola reduction sauces.