Coca-Cola’s European bottling unit announced a significant recall of Coke, Sprite, and other beverages after discovering elevated levels of chlorate, which may pose health risks. The affected products, which include cans and glass bottles, were distributed in Belgium, the Netherlands, Britain, Germany, France, and Luxembourg since November. Although the exact quantity is unknown, the company indicated it is substantial. Chlorate is commonly found in foods as a byproduct of chlorine disinfectants used in water treatment and food processing.
In a 2015 assessment, the European Food Safety Authority highlighted that long-term exposure to chlorate could pose health risks, particularly for children with mild to moderate iodine deficiencies. Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belgium stated that most affected products have already been removed from shelves, and efforts are ongoing to eliminate any remaining items from the market. However, the company’s French division noted that independent analysis found the likelihood of health risk to be very low, adding that they have not received any consumer complaints regarding the issue.
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners stated that affected batches of Coke and Fuze Tea were shipped to France, but the recall does not currently apply to the French market. The company issued the recall after a routine check at its production site in Ghent revealed the issue. The affected products, which include Minute Maid, Nalu, Royal Bliss, and Tropico brands, have a production code ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. The company is in contact with authorities in affected markets to address the issue.