Stuff You Should Know Short Stuff: Fanta - Nazi Favorite?
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Feb 26, 2025 Discover the surprising origins of Fanta, created in Nazi Germany during WWII to solve ingredient shortages. Explore the ethical dilemmas faced by Coca-Cola as it navigated its association with oppressive regimes. Learn how a wartime necessity transformed into a beloved global soft drink, despite its complex and controversial past. The conversation also highlights Fanta's colorful flavors and cultural significance, shedding light on the drink's enduring legacy.
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Coca-Cola and the Nazi Olympics
- Coca-Cola, under Robert Woodruff's leadership, co-sponsored the 1936 Berlin Olympics.
- Their logo appeared alongside swastikas, demonstrating their engagement in Nazi Germany.
Nazi Salute at Coca-Cola GmbH
- Max Kite, head of Coca-Cola GmbH, celebrated the company's 10th anniversary and Hitler's 50th birthday with a Nazi salute.
- This act further solidified Coca-Cola's ties to the Nazi regime.
Fanta's Wartime Origins
- Due to wartime shortages, Max Kite created Fanta using leftover apple pulp, beet sugar, and whey.
- This wartime concoction tasted nothing like today's Fanta and was often used as a flavoring agent.
