The secret formula for Coca-Cola, specifically ‘Merchandise 7X’, a hidden blend of oils that gives Coke its unique taste, may have been published 32-years ago in an issue of the ‘Atlanta Journal-Constitution’, recently rediscovered by ‘This American Life’. Although all the main ingredients are already shown on the can, we all knew there had to be something extra (besides the cocaine) that gave Coke its kick, and this must be it.

But you may be asking: “Fanboy? What value does Coke, a soft drink, have as the subject of an article on your website?” Well, it’s really quite elementary. See, in case you didn’t realize it, Coke has plenty of uses besides as a sugary soda. It’s common knowledge you can use Coke to clean rust off chrome and other metals, or to clean a really dirty window, or even to clean greasy, smelly, and/or bloody, clothes. But what you may or may not know is Coke syrup in its pure form (without carbonated water) has to be transported in hazmat trucks. Law enforcement officials also use Coke to clean away organic material from accident sites on the road. Imagine the damage that could occur if a perfected formula for bootleg Coke fell into the wrong hands? I’ll admit it’s a little out there, but anything’s possible.

Thanks to news.com.au for the full story, where you can read the secret formula for yourself.