Mangos and Coke Death Warning: A Long-Running Health Hoax
Bogus health warning still circulating
tl;dr
Messages warn not to consume aerated drinks such as Coca Cola after eating mangos because the two combined can form a potent poison that can cause instant death. However, the claim is a baseless Internet rumour. There is no danger in eating mangos and drinking cola together.
For over a decade, a false health warning has circulated on social media claiming that drinking Coca-Cola after eating mangos can be deadly. According to the hoax, the combination turns into a "very potent poison" that is “instantly capable of killing a human.”
Many Variants of the Hoax
One widely shared version of the warning (see below) tells of an Indian tourist in China who allegedly died after consuming mangos followed by Coca-Cola. Variants of the story change the drink to Pepsi. Others refer more generally to any “cooled drink” or “aerated beverage.”
All versions give the same ominous message that consuming mangos and soft drinks together is instantly fatal.
Claims Are Nonsense
Not surprisingly, these claims are utter nonsense. Both mangos and cola are consumed by millions of people around the world every day, often together.
If the combination truly were deadly, we would be hearing about widespread deaths. Yet, there are no credible medical or news reports confirming any such cases. Nor have any health authorities issued warnings about the supposed danger.
What Actually Happens If You Combine Them?
Some people may experience gas, bloating, or mild indigestion when consuming mangos and fizzy drinks together. But they are not going to drop down dead.
Don’t Spread the Fear
There is no danger in eating mangos and drinking cola1 together. Sharing silly hoaxes like this only causes unnecessary fear and alarm. If you encounter this warning on social media, don’t pass it on. Instead, consider replying to the sender to explain that the claim is false.
Examples of the hoax warning:
Recently an Indian tourist to China, ate few mango (fanas) and immediately thereafter consumed Coca Cola. Within short time he collapsed. He was taken to hospital and was declared dead. The Doctor then revealed that After mango, no aerated drinks should be consumed “as this combination turns into very potent poison, instantly capable of killing a human. This is season for mango and our family or friends should not commit this mistake. by taking such soft drinks such as Coke, Pepsi etc…should, if at all, be consumed at least after 8 hours of eating mango, as this fruit takes a lot of time to get fully digested. Please share with family, and with those whom you care for
Regularly drinking sugary drinks over long periods may hasten your demise. Eating nutrient-rich and fibre-rich foods such as mangos can have ongoing health benefits. Bottom line? Eat the mango. Skip the Coke. :)