What's Happening?
Coca-Cola was invented in 1885 by John Pemberton, a pharmacist from Atlanta, Georgia. The original formula included cocaine, derived from coca leaf extract, which contributed to the 'Coca' in the beverage's name. The 'Cola' part came from the kola nut, which contains caffeine. At the time, cocaine was a legal and common ingredient in medicines, believed to be safe in small amounts. This historical context highlights the evolving understanding of drug safety and regulation.
Why It's Important?
The inclusion of cocaine in Coca-Cola's original formula underscores the significant changes in drug regulation and public health awareness over the past century. This historical fact illustrates how societal norms and scientific understanding can shift, impacting product formulations and consumer safety standards. The removal of cocaine from Coca-Cola reflects broader regulatory changes that have shaped the modern food and beverage industry, influencing how companies develop and market their products.
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