The zero-sugar Diet Coke cans are hard to find at Indian stores|Brett Jordan|CC BY 2.0
Ever since the Strait of Hormuz closed, aluminum cans have been hard to come by in India. Since Diet Coke is only available in cans there, fans have really felt the squeeze.
Can availability has suffered as the Persian Gulf, responsible for around 9% of global aluminum production, faces disruptions.
The scarcity has turned the zero-sugar beverage into a cult commodity among Gen Z Indians, with some even throwing “Coke-tail” parties.
A 25-year-old turned her obsession into an alcohol-free party, carrying Diet Coke, mixers, snacks, and music.
Analysts note that the Diet Coke usage has increased due to a growing health-conscious movement in India. A 2023 study shows nearly 10% of India’s adult population is diabetic.
Plus, health-conscious Gen Z prefer non-alcoholic beverages.
Return of the glass Diet Coke
Amid the shortage, the iconic glass bottle of Diet Coke returned to the Indian market this week. However, it costs three times as much as the aluminum can version. According to netizens, the soft drink is for those seeking “inflation with extra fizz.”
The cultural trend shows how the world’s most populous country is affected by the Iran war. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday called on citizens to reduce oil consumption, consider working from home, and avoid gold purchases for a year amid the global oil crisis.