The phenomenon of Coca-Cola tasting better at McDonald’s has long intrigued consumers, prompting speculation and even conspiracy theories. However, according to popular food scientist Abbey Thiel, the reason behind this preference lies in the meticulous filtration process employed by the fast-food giant.
In an interview with Parade, Thiel explained that McDonald’s filters every drop of water before it enters their soda fountains, ensuring a high-quality base for their Coca-Cola. This filtration process involves removing chlorine, adjusting water hardness to regulate acidity, and eliminating iron to prevent color and flavor defects. Thiel emphasized that without such treatment, the resulting Coke may exhibit off-flavors and aromas due to low-quality or inconsistent water.
The discussion around the superior taste of McDonald’s Coke gained traction earlier this year when a Reddit post titled “Does McDonald’s Coke really taste the best?” sparked debate among users, with some arguing that the best Coke could also be found at Walt Disney World.
