Coca-Cola consumption rises in Chiapas amid water crisis

In Chiapas, Mexico, Coca-Cola has become ingrained in daily life amid a water crisis.

Coca-Cola becomes a staple in Chiapas culture

In Chiapas, a state in southern Mexico characterized by extreme poverty, Coca-Cola has become a vital part of daily life. Many residents drink as much as two liters a day, resulting in up to 800 liters per person each year. This consumption is largely driven by a significant lack of clean drinking water, as only 7 percent of households believe their water is safe. As a cheaper alternative, Coca-Cola has found a foothold not just in homes but also in rituals and ceremonies. Shamans bless bottles of the soft drink, viewing it as a sacred offering. The corporation's plant in the region extracts over 1.3 million liters of water daily, raising concerns about the local community's access to sustainable drinking water. Meanwhile, the rising consumption of sugary drinks has ushered in a worrying obesity crisis, especially among children, with expert reports noting that fattening beverages account for a startling 40 percent of children's daily caloric intake.

The situation in Chiapas highlights a complex intersection of culture, health, and corporate influence. Residents increasingly turn to Coca-Cola due to the scarcity of potable water, leading to a deepening crisis in public health and wellbeing. This addiction to sugary drinks is not merely a personal choice; it is a consequence of political decisions made decades ago that shaped access to food and water. As communities grapple with rising obesity rates and associated health issues like diabetes, it raises questions about the responsibilities of large corporations in addressing health disparities in vulnerable populations.

Highlights

The cultural implications of this beverage addiction reveal systemic issues demanding attention.