Summary
YouTuber LabCoatz spent a year reverse-engineering Coca-Cola using mass spectrometry and blind taste tests
The final recipe identifies specific essential oils like neroli, coriander, and nutmeg as key flavor components
The creator claims the formula matches the chemical composition of the original “Merchandise 7X” syrup
A YouTuber known as LabCoatz claims to have successfully uncovered Coca-Cola’s 139-year-old secret formula, a trade secret famously guarded in a vault in Atlanta. In a 25-minute video that has already garnered millions of views, the creator details a year-long scientific process involving mass spectrometry, chromatography, and exhaustive blind taste testing to reverse-engineer the world’s most popular soft drink.
LabCoatz’s investigation moved beyond simple trial and error, employing advanced laboratory equipment to analyze the molecular composition of the soda. Working with fellow science creators, he identified that while 99% of the drink consists of standard ingredients like sugar, phosphoric acid, and caffeine, the elusive flavor profile relies on a complex mix of essential oils. The analysis pinpointed alpha-terpinene from citrus, cinnamaldehyde from cinnamon, and specific compounds found in nutmeg and coriander.
A critical breakthrough came with the discovery that Coca-Cola likely uses wine tannins and a “decocainized” coca leaf extract to provide its signature dry, astringent finish — something standard home recipes often miss. By substituting legal alternatives like tea tree oil to mimic the coca leaf’s terpene profile and adding food-grade tannins, LabCoatz created a syrup that he claims is chemically and strictly identical to the “real thing.”
Blind taste tests conducted in the video showed participants unable to distinguish the homemade version from the store-bought product, with some even preferring the replica. While Coca-Cola has never patented its formula to avoid public disclosure, LabCoatz’s video serves as a rare, scientifically backed challenge to the brand’s century-long marketing mystique.
Watch LabCoatz’s full video above.
Dining and Cooking