Tests find traces of alcohol in Coke, Pepsi and other sodas

Scientists who tested 19 different kinds of cola found trace amounts of alcohol in 10 of the samples. However, the amounts were so small that you'd have to consume nearly 13,000 cans to qualify for a DUI.

The Sun reports that the amounts were as low as 10mg per liter, or, 0.001 percent. In other words, you'll still need to visit your local watering hole if you want more jack in your Coke.

France's National Institute of Consumption conducted the tests, which were published in the magazine "60 Millions de Consommateurs,"

"It is possible alcohol traces come from the process of making our drink according to its secret recipe," said Coca-Cola France's scientific director Michel Pepin.

Under the "rumors" section of Coca-Cola's website, the company acknowledges:

"Trace levels of alcohol can occur naturally in many foods and beverages. Governments and religious organizations have recognized that such minute levels are considered acceptable in nonalcoholic foods and beverages."

The news has sparked speculation from news outlets that the presence of alcohol could violate the moral codes of certain religions and organizations that prohibit the consumption of alcohol.

However, Pepin specifically notes that the Paris mosque gave Coca-Cola a certificate stating that the Muslim community can consume their products.

PepsiCo also acknowledge the possibility of trace amounts of alcohol in their products, saying, "Some soft drinks can contain minute traces of alcohol because of the ingredients used." However, the company also stressed, "The Pepsi Cola recipe does not contain alcohol."

According to the Sun, both companies said natural fruit fermenting likely produces the traces of alcohol. Interestingly, the study found that the only soda brands which didn't contain the trace amounts of alcohol were generic brands produced by local, French grocery outlets.