How coronavirus could cause shortage of Diet Coke and Coke Zero

The coronavirus outbreak has disrupted Coca-Cola’s supply chain in the US and some countries across the globe, according to the company’s annual report.

COVID-19 has delayed the production and exports of the artificial sweeteners used to make the brand’s diet and zero-sugar sodas.

The company is currently relying on alternative supply chains to keep up with demand, but this is only a short-term solution, according to report in the U.S.

“We may see tighter supplies of some of these ingredients in the longer term should production or export operations in China deteriorate,” the REPORT said.

Coca-Cola did not specify which sweeteners are being affected, but the company referred to sucralose — the sugar substitute better known as Splenda that is sourced from China — as a “critical raw material” in making Diet Coke and Powerade Zero, CTV reported.