Soft drinks giant Coca-Cola has announced the recall of several products across Europe after discovering higher levels of a chemical known as “Chlorate.” Affected drinks in cans and glass bottles were distributed in Belgium, Britain, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands starting in November 2024. By the end of December, five product lines had already been shipped to Britain and sold, reports BBC.
What is Chlorate and Why is it Harmful?
Chlorate is a chemical by-product created when chlorine-based disinfectants are used in water treatment and food processing. Exposure to elevated levels of Chlorate can lead to health risks, particularly for children and infants, potentially causing thyroid-related issues.
Coca-Cola’s international bottling and distribution operation in Belgium identified the issue during routine testing at its facility in Ghent. The affected products include some batches of Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Tropico, and Minute Maid.
Risk Assessment and Consumer Safety
Despite the recall, Coca-Cola emphasized that the associated risk for consumers is minimal. A company spokesperson told the BBC that independent expert analysis concluded the risk to public health is “very low.” Additionally, the company stated that it had not received any consumer complaints from Britain, where the affected drinks had already been sold.
Coca-Cola assured consumers that it had alerted the relevant authorities and is actively collaborating with them. The company said it has withdrawn the majority of affected products from the market and continues to prioritize the safety and quality of its beverages. However, Coca-Cola admitted that it does not have a precise figure on the volume of drinks involved but acknowledged it is “considerable.”
This incident highlights the importance of routine quality checks and swift action to ensure consumer safety.
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