Imagine going nearly five decades without drinking a glass of plain water! It sounds almost impossible, doesn’t it? But billionaire investor Warren Buffett reportedly made this surprising claim during a conversation with fellow billionaire Bill Ackman. Instead of drinking ordinary water, Buffett prefers Cherry Coke, a sugary soft drink that has been one of his favourite beverages for decades. The unusual revelation has once again attracted attention online, with people curious about the 96-year-old businessman’s food and drinking habits.
Buffett is widely known for his investment skills, simple lifestyle and extraordinary business decisions. However, his love for fast food and Coca-Cola has also become a talking point over the years.
Warren Buffett’s Surprising 48-Year Water Claim
The unusual story was recently shared by billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman during an appearance on the Equity Mates Investing podcast.
Ackman recalled inviting Buffett to his home for dinner some years ago. Knowing about Buffett’s love for Cherry Coke, he had made sure the drink was available for his guest.
During dinner, Ackman reportedly offered Buffett still or sparkling water. However, Buffett declined both options.
When Ackman asked whether he ever drank water, Buffett reportedly gave a surprising response: “Bill, I haven’t had water in 48 years.”
The statement quickly caught people’s attention because drinking water is considered one of the most basic parts of a healthy lifestyle.
However, it is important to understand that this is a personal anecdote recalled by Ackman. It does not independently establish Buffett’s complete daily fluid intake or prove that he has avoided every form of water for exactly 48 years.
What Does Warren Buffett Drink Instead Of Water?
Buffett’s favourite beverage is Cherry Coke, a flavoured version of Coca-Cola.
His love for soft drinks is nothing new. Over the years, the legendary investor has openly spoken about his preference for Coca-Cola and his unusual eating habits.
In a 2015 interview with Fortune magazine, Buffett said he consumed at least five 12-ounce servings of Coke daily. He even joked that around one-fourth of his daily calorie intake came from Coca-Cola beverages.
That statement gives an idea of just how much he enjoys the drink.
For Buffett, Cherry Coke is not simply an occasional treat. It has been a familiar part of his lifestyle for decades.
Why Did Warren Buffett Switch From Pepsi To Cherry Coke?
Interestingly, Buffett was not always a Coca-Cola fan.
For around 48 years, he was loyal to Pepsi. However, in 1986, he announced that he was switching to Cherry Coke.
He even made Cherry Coke the official beverage of Berkshire Hathaway’s annual shareholder meeting.
The change became an interesting part of his public image. His preference for the drink also attracted attention because Berkshire Hathaway later became one of Coca-Cola’s major investors.
Buffett’s company built a substantial stake in Coca-Cola during the late 1980s and 1990s. It became one of the best-known long-term investments associated with his investment career.
Buffett Is Also Famous For His Love Of Burgers And Fast Food
His unusual drinking habit is not the only reason people are curious about his lifestyle.
Buffett has long been associated with a love for simple and familiar foods. His favourites reportedly include McDonald’s breakfasts, hamburgers, French fries, hot dogs, ice cream and sweets.
Unlike many wealthy business leaders who follow strict food routines, Buffett has often spoken about enjoying the foods he likes.
His food preferences have become a familiar part of his public personality.
Even during international trips, stories about his preference for familiar meals and Cherry Coke have attracted attention.
What Can Indians Learn From Warren Buffett’s Drinking Habits?
For Indian readers, this story raises an interesting question: Is it okay to replace drinking water with soft drinks?
The simple answer is no.
While Buffett’s personal preference is unusual, it should not be treated as health advice or a lifestyle recommendation.
In India, drinking enough water is especially important because many parts of the country experience high temperatures for several months every year.
People working outdoors, travelling in the summer or exercising regularly may need to pay particular attention to their fluid intake.
Soft drinks such as Coca-Cola contain added sugar and calories. Regularly consuming large quantities can contribute to weight gain, tooth decay and an increased risk of health problems such as Type 2 diabetes.
Plain water remains one of the best choices for everyday hydration.
Indian alternatives such as unsweetened lemon water, plain buttermilk and other suitable low-sugar drinks can also help add variety to daily fluid intake.
The important point is not to copy the drinking habits of a billionaire simply because he has lived an extraordinary life.
A Billionaire Who Continues To Surprise The World
Warren Buffett has spent decades building one of the most successful investment records in business history.
His decisions, investment philosophy and ability to identify valuable companies have inspired millions of people around the world.
But his personal lifestyle is very different from what many people expect from a billionaire.
From his love for Cherry Coke to his fondness for burgers and ice cream, Buffett has always attracted attention for his simple and unusual preferences.
Now, Bill Ackman’s story about the 48-year water claim has added another surprising chapter to that reputation.
Whether people find the habit amusing, unbelievable or concerning, one thing is certain: Buffett’s everyday choices continue to generate headlines even beyond the world of investing.