Coc
a-Cola is one of the most popular beverages in the world. It was created in 1886 by John Stith Pemberton, a pharmacist from Georgia, USA. The drink's original formula contained cocaine from the coca leaf, but the ingredient was removed in 1903. Over the years, Coca-Cola has become a cultural icon and has left a significant impact on the world. In this article, we'll explore ten little-known facts about the favorite fizzy drink.
1. Coca-Cola's original purpose was medicinal.
Coca-Cola was initially marketed as a medicine to cure headaches, fatigue, and digestive issues. Pemberton believed that the drink's key ingredients- coca leaves and kola nuts- were powerful stimulants and could provide a cure for various ailments.
2. The drink's name was derived from its ingredients.
Originally, Coca-Cola got its name from two key ingredients; coca leaves and kola nuts. The name was created by Pemberton's bookkeeper, Frank Robinson, who was also responsible for designing the famous Coca-Cola logo.
3. The original Coca-Cola formula contained cocaine.
In its early days, Coca-Cola's original formula contained small amounts of cocaine extracted from the coca leaf. The amount of cocaine used in each bottle was so negligible, however, that it was unlikely to have any significant impact on the consumer.
4. Coca-Cola helped shape the modern image of Santa Claus.
In 1931, Coca-Cola commissioned an illustrator, Haddon Sundblom, to create a series of Christmas-themed ads featuring Santa Claus. Sundblom's version of Santa Claus has since become one of the most popular depictions of the jolly old man.
5. Coca-Cola's red color is trademarked.
The red color of Coca-Cola is an iconic aspect of its image. The company has trademarked its distinctive shade of red, known as Coca-Cola Red.
6. Coca-Cola was the first product to use coupons.
Coca-Cola was the first consumer product to use coupons as a promotional tool. In 1887, Pemberton and his partners began distributing tickets that could be redeemed for a free glass of Coca-Cola.
7. Coca-Cola was the first product to use a giveaway.
In 1899, Coca-Cola introduced a campaign where customers could collect bottle caps with printed numbers on them. The numbers corresponded to cash prizes that could be redeemed at any local bottling plant.
8. Coca-Cola once tried to change its formula.
In 1985, Coca-Cola attempted to change its formula and release "New Coke." The new formula was met with a negative reaction from the public, and within months, the company reintroduced the original formula under the name "Coca-Cola Classic."
9. Coca-Cola spends billions of dollars on marketing.
Coca-Cola is one of the world's largest marketers and typically spends billions of dollars per year on advertising and marketing. The company's famous slogans include "The Real Thing," "Enjoy," and "Taste the Feeling."
10 Coca-Cola is available in every country except two.
Coca-Cola is a global brand, and its products are available in nearly every country in the world. The only two exceptions are Cuba and North Korea, where a trade embargo and political isolation, respectively, prevent Coca-Cola's products from being sold.
In conclusion, Coca-Cola's history and impact on the world is fascinating. From its early days as a medicinal product to its current status as a cultural icon, the story of Coca-Cola is one that continues to be written. And while it may be one of the most popular beverages in the world, there is still much to learn about this beloved fizzy drink.
