Coca-Cola imports coca leaves into New Jersey under a DEA license.
For decades, Coca-Cola has been trying to suppress the rumor that the ‘secret ingredient’ contains cocaine. Nevertheless, cocaine is produced in a small and inconspicuous factory in New Jersey. The production of the intoxicant and the necessary importation of coca leaves into the US is done entirely legally on behalf of Coca-Cola – and with a license from the US drug enforcement agency DEA.
According to the Daily Mail, the Stepan Company processes up to 500 tons of coca leaves annually. After the intoxicant has been extracted from the leaves, pure cocaine remains, worth about two billion dollars (converted about 1.83 billion euros).
Cocaine extract is resold
However, for the world-famous drink maker, it’s just a by-product. The now “decocainized” leaves are passed on to Coca-Cola to make the iconic drink. The cocaine extract, on the other hand, is sold to major opioid manufacturers, who market the powder as a medical narcotic.
In fact, the soda once contained traces of the drug, but they were completely removed from the recipe starting in 1929. But until 1988, Coca-Cola had to deny to The New York Times that cola contained small amounts of cocaine.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
