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Health

Coca-Cola recalls popular beverages in Europe due to elevated chlorate levels

Tuesday 28 January 2025 - 14:30 By: Dakir Madiha

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Coca-Cola has initiated a widespread recall of several of its popular drinks across Europe after detecting higher-than-accepted levels of chlorate, a chemical compound linked to potential health risks. The recall spans multiple countries, including Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and a limited number of products in Britain. Affected beverages include well-known brands such as Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Tropico, and Minute Maid.

The issue was identified during a routine inspection at Coca-Cola’s production facility in Ghent, Belgium. Chlorate, which can form when chlorine-based disinfectants are used in water treatment or food processing, has raised concerns due to its potential health implications, particularly for children and infants. High levels of chlorate exposure have been associated with thyroid dysfunction, nausea, vomiting, and impaired blood oxygen absorption.

A Coca-Cola spokesperson addressed the situation, stating, “Independent expert analysis concludes that any associated risk for consumers is very low.” However, the company emphasized its commitment to safety, adding, “We’ve alerted the authorities on this matter and will continue to collaborate with them.” The recall involves a specific batch of imported cans marked with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE, located at the base of the cans.

Nutritionist Caron Grazette highlighted the broader implications of the recall, questioning the presence of such chemicals in consumable products. “We need to ask whether we want to ingest chemicals used in fireworks and disinfectants, even in small quantities,” she remarked. Recent studies have shown that excessive chlorate intake can hinder the blood’s ability to absorb oxygen, further underscoring the need for caution.

While Coca-Cola maintains that the health risk is minimal, the scale of the recall is significant. “We do not have a precise figure, but it is clear that it is a considerable quantity,” the company acknowledged. The European Food Safety Authority has previously warned about the long-term health risks of chlorate exposure, particularly for children with mild iodine deficiencies.

As of now, the majority of unsold affected products have been removed from shelves, with efforts underway to ensure the remaining items are promptly withdrawn. Coca-Cola reiterated its commitment to product safety, stating, “We consider the quality and safety of our products as our top priority.”

This recall underscores the importance of rigorous quality control in food and beverage production, as well as the need for transparency in addressing potential health risks. Coca-Cola’s swift action reflects its dedication to consumer safety, even as it navigates the challenges of a large-scale product withdrawal.