posted on Feb, 7 2006 @ 02:26 PM
If I remember correctly fountain machines are supposed to be calibrated 5:1 soda water to syrup ratio for coca-cola.
This is the standard for all machines as coke wants its product to taste the same where ever you go. These machines need to be calibrated
periodically to ensure product quality. Some places that serve fountain drinks are kind of slack and rarely (even never) calibrate their machines.
McDonald's, as much as some of us dislike them, runs a tight operation. They are very good at managing their controllables and equipment. This may be
why you find that Coke tastes better there. Another factor may be the ice. I prefer my drinks with ice. If I get a drink with out ice it tastes flat
to me.