Coca-Cola has initiated a recall of some of its drinks across Europe due to “higher levels” of chlorate, a chemical that can form during water treatment and food processing when chlorine-based disinfectants are used.
The recall primarily affects Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, with five product lines having been shipped to Britain, though these have already been sold. Brands involved in the recall include Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Tropico, and Minute Maid, according to Coca-Cola’s Belgium bottling and distribution operation.
Chlorate, when consumed in excess, can lead to thyroid problems, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, particularly affecting children and infants. Additionally, it may impair the blood’s ability to absorb oxygen, according to NHS nutritionist Caron Grazette.
“We need to question whether or not we want to digest chemicals in soft drinks that are used in the production of fireworks and disinfectants, however small the quantity,” Grazette told the BBC.
Coca-Cola, however, emphasized that independent analysis concluded the associated health risks for consumers are “very low.”
In Great Britain, the recall impacts a small number of imported cans, including Appletiser, Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, and Sprite Zero, with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE, found on the base of the cans.
The UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) has launched an investigation into the matter. Anne Gravett from the FSA assured the public that, “If we identify any unsafe food, we’ll take action to ensure it is removed and alert consumers.”
The higher levels of chlorate were identified during routine testing at Coca-Cola’s production facility in Ghent, Belgium. Most unsold products have already been removed from shelves, with the remaining items in the process of being withdrawn.
Coca-Cola reiterated its commitment to safety, stating, “The quality and safety of our products are our top priority.” The company added that it has notified authorities and is actively collaborating with them to address the issue.
Despite no consumer complaints reported in Great Britain, the recall highlights growing concerns over the presence of industrial chemicals in food and beverage products.