Coca-Cola is conducting a massive recall of several of its products in Europe following the discovery of excessively high chlorate levels, a substance found in the water used for processing beverages

This recall affects various brands under the Coca-Cola umbrella, including Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Fuze Tea, Minute Maid, Nalu, Royal Bliss, and Tropico. The impacted products, primarily cans and returnable glass bottles, were distributed across several European countries starting in November, including Belgium, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Luxembourg.

Affected Products:

The recall specifically concerns drinks with a production code ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. These products can be identified by the code located beneath the cans or on the neck/label of the glass bottles. Consumers are encouraged to return these products to the store for a refund.

Health Risks:

While the chlorate levels in these products are not considered immediately harmful, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) warns of the risks associated with chronic exposure, particularly for children and individuals with iodine deficiencies. Acute exposure to high levels of chlorate, though rare, could lead to serious adverse effects, such as limiting the blood’s ability to absorb oxygen, potentially affecting kidney function.

Actions Taken:

Following the discovery of this issue, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners has taken steps to remove the affected products from store shelves, with the majority of unsold products already being withdrawn from retailers. The company has also issued an apology to consumers and ensures that all remaining affected products are in the process of being removed.

Local food safety authorities and distributors have been notified, and although France is less impacted, with only two specific product references affected, Coca-Cola continues to closely monitor the situation across Europe.

Consumers are advised not to consume these products and to return them for a refund. Coca-Cola emphasizes that these tests were conducted as part of their quality control procedures to ensure the safety of the products distributed.