Coke Zero Is Being Replaced by Coke Zero Sugar and People Are Outraged

There's no doubt that 2017 has been a hard, weird time for many of us, and the year's latest grim development is further evidence that we're all living in a dark version of the Matrix: The Coca-Cola Company is getting rid of Coke Zero and replacing it with Coke Zero Sugar, and it has people up in arms.

Coca-Cola announced the swap in an internet-shaking tweet and blog post, writing, "through advanced in-house innovation and more than a year of market testing, Coke Zero is getting a new name, new look, and even more delicious taste."

People aren't so sure about that "even more delicious taste" part, though. The reaction to the death of Coke Zero has been swift and angry, serving as a reminder that the Coke Zero fan base is a large and loyal group of people who demonstrably do not appreciate having their soft drink of choice messed with.

Coca-Cola's announcement didn't specify what about the magic formula is changing (obviously, they'll still use artificial sweeteners instead of actual sugar), but it's not actually new worldwide—Coke Zero Sugar has already been rolled out in 25 markets, including the U.K. and Mexico.

If Coke Zero fans in the U.S. have anything to say about it, though, the company's not about to quietly sneak Coke Zero Sugar into office cafeterias, gas stations, and vending machines without an uproar. The internet's visceral reaction echo one sentiment: Give me Coke Zero or give me death. OK, maybe not death, but Coke Zero is undoubtedly a cult favorite that will be missed. Here's a look at Coke Zero Sugar:

Coke Zero Sugar will be available in August 2017, and naturally, people are taking to Twitter to express their dismay via strong words and well-placed reaction GIFs.

This woman immediately knew the value of her last Coke Zero.

We can't take anything for granted anymore.

And some people just don't understand why something so perfect needs changing.

If it ain't broke...

Others are still processing the news.

Everything's fine, Coke Zero will still exist and all will be right in the world.

There's even a chant for the Coke Zero Sugar resistance.

All together now.

This guy went real deep.

Philosopher George Santayana said it best.

Man Repeller brings up an interesting conspiracy theory.

Best case scenario: Coke Zero Sugar is a decoy and they'll give Coke Zero back to us when we all show a little more appreciation.

Also, what about Cherry Coke Zero?

Cherry Coke Zero Sugar is simply unacceptable.

R.I.P Coke Zero.

In loving memory, indeed.

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