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In a move to ensure consumer safety, Coca-Cola’s European bottling unit has announced a significant recall of several of its beverages, including Coke, Sprite, and others, after detecting elevated levels of chlorate in some products. The recall, which affects Belgium, the Netherlands, Britain, Germany, France, and Luxembourg, follows concerns over potential health risks associated with the chemical.
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belgium confirmed on Monday that the affected beverages, including cans and glass bottles, have been distributed across Europe since November. While the company has not disclosed an exact figure, it acknowledged the scale of the recall, stating that it involved a considerable quantity of drinks.
Chlorate, a substance that can be found in food and water, originates from chlorine disinfectants commonly used in food processing and water treatment. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a scientific opinion in 2015, warning that prolonged exposure to chlorate could present a potential health concern, particularly for children with iodine deficiencies.
In response to the risk, Coca-Cola has already removed most of the affected products from store shelves and is continuing efforts to eliminate the remaining stock. The company reassured consumers that it has not received any complaints related to this issue.
The recall affects various brands, including Minute Maid, Nalu, Royal Bliss, and Tropico. The company’s French division added that independent experts had determined the likelihood of any associated risk to be “very low” and confirmed that the recall does not currently apply to the French market, where some affected products, including Coke and Fuze Tea, had been delivered.
The recall was triggered by a routine check at Coca-Cola’s production site in Ghent. The company has apologized for the inconvenience and is working closely with relevant authorities in the affected regions to resolve the issue.
Disclaimer: While the recall is precautionary, consumers are advised to follow the guidance issued by local health authorities. If you have purchased affected products, please return them to the point of sale for a refund. For further information, visit the official Coca-Cola website or contact the local customer service department.
