We don't care what the marketing folk from Coca-Cola company say - their sugary nectar does taste different depending on what vessel it arrives in.
Far from being a trick of the mind, biochemist and founder of Science By Design Sara Risch has an explanation as to why Coke from a can tastes different to Coke from a plastic bottle.
In short, it's due to reaction with polymers in packaging.
"While packaging and food companies work to prevent any interactions, they can occur," explains Risch.
Aluminium cans are lined with polymer coating, preventing the metal from reacting with the content of the can. However, a small amount of interaction can occur between Coke and this polymer, with the lining absorbing some flavourings in the liquid and adjusting its final taste.
Meanwhile, the opposite can occur in a plastic bottle, with the acetaldehyde lining of a bottle transferring into the drink. While the chemical alteration is tiny, it could be enough to alter your experience of the drink.
The most inert material that Coca-Cola can arrive in is glass, leaving you with a pure, unadulterated version of your sugary hit.
While Coke will never admit to it, you can now assure yourself that your taste buds haven't been sending you the wrong signals for all these years.
[Via: Popsci.com]
