Scientist shares theory to why 'Coke tastes better in McDonalds'

There is something quite special about indulging in a sweet, refreshing Coke at McDonald's, but why is that?

I think it has just become common knowledge over the years that whether it be a regular Coke, or a Diet Coke, it just tastes better at the popular fast-food chain.

Many on social media are with that mindset, with the online praise for Coke at McDonald's flooding in.

Coke just tastes better at McDonald's, right? (Jaap Arriens/NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Taking to X, formerly known as Twitter, one person penned: "McDonald’s Coke is Undefeated. S-Tier Soda/Pop."

"McDonald's has the best coke! there's no debate!" a second added, while a third remarked: "McDonald's coke has never failed me."

So, with everyone in agreement that Coke is just better at McDonald's, you may now be wondering why that's the case.

Why does Coke ‘taste better’ at McDonald’s?

The special formulation of McDonald’s Coca-Cola has long been the subject of conspiracy theories, especially considering the same drink seems to taste very different depending on the place its sold.

Well, a food scientist is refreshing our memories as conspiracy theories seem to get out of control.

"Soft drink producers will usually have their own water supplier or a filtration system to increase the quality of water," scientist Abbey Thiel told Parade last week.

Most often, chlorine is removed as it can result in a ‘disinfectant’ taste, the water hardness will be adjusted since it affects the acidity of the drink, and iron will be removed to limit color and flavor defects.

“Without this treatment, the end result is a Coke that has off-flavors and aromas due to low-quality, inconsistent water."

A scientist has shared why it tastes better. (Gado/Getty Images)

What has McDonald's said?

The Coke formula at McDonald's has been a sought-after recipe for decades, leading to McDonald's having to release a statement on the matter.

In a statement released in 2021, the fast-food chain said: “There are many reasons the Coca-Cola® tastes so great at McDonald’s.

"We simply follow the guidelines set by Coca-Cola® and take steps to ensure that we serve a high-quality fountain beverage.

“The water and Coca-Cola® syrup are pre-chilled before entering our fountain dispensers with the ratio of syrup set to allow for ice to melt. We also keep our fountain beverage system cold so your drink is always refreshing.

"In order to ensure our drinks are always meeting a gold standard, we filter all the water before it enters fountain dispensers."

Apparently, it is also the straw that contributes to the amazing taste.

"It’s slightly wider than a typical straw so all that Coke® taste can hit your taste buds.” the statement concludes.