Coca-Cola’s Cocaine Era Ends in 1903

Coca-Cola actually contained cocaine until 1903, not 1915. The original formula

from 1886 used coca leaf extract, which naturally included small amounts of cocaine.

Back then, cocaine wasn't illegal and was considered medicinal. Pharmacist John

Pemberton marketed it as a brain tonic and cure for headaches. People would visit soda fountains and

unknowingly consume cocaine with every sip. The company removed cocaine from the

recipe in 1903 after public pressure and changing laws. They switched to a cocaine-free coca

leaf extract that's still used today. So for nearly twenty years, Americans were drinking

actual cocaine in their Coke, and it was completely legal and socially acceptable.