By DAYO ADESULU
Elevated Chlorate Levels Prompt Coca-Cola Recall in Belgium, UK, and More
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belux has announced a massive product recall affecting multiple countries, including Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the UK, due to the detection of elevated levels of chlorate in some of its beverages. The recall, which was carried out in collaboration with food safety authorities, raises concerns about potential health risks linked to chlorate exposure.
Why Are Coca-Cola Products Being Recalled?
According to a report by the BBC, excessive chlorate exposure has been associated with thyroid issues, particularly in children and infants. Chlorate can form when chlorine-based disinfectants are used in water treatment and food processing. Health experts warn that consuming high levels of chlorate may cause symptoms like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reduced oxygen absorption in the blood.
NHS and private nutritionist Caron Grazette commented:
“We need to question whether or not we want to digest chemicals in soft drinks that are also used in the production of fireworks and disinfectants, however small the quantity.”
Despite these concerns, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners has assured consumers that the health risk remains minimal and that independent expert analysis indicates a low risk of adverse health effects.
Which Coca-Cola Products Are Affected?
Belgium & Luxembourg
The recall affects Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Fuze Tea, Minute Maid, Nalu, Royal Bliss, and Tropico in cans and returnable glass bottles with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. Other packaging formats, such as PET plastic bottles, beverage fountains, and tetra packs, are not affected. Consumers are advised to return affected products for a refund.
United Kingdom
In the UK, the recall includes:
- Coca-Cola Original Taste
- Coca-Cola Zero Sugar
- Diet Coke
- Sprite Zero
These products were mainly distributed to cafes and restaurants. Additionally, 6x250ml multipacks of Appletiser sold in supermarkets are included in the recall. However, standard cans and all glass and plastic bottles remain safe for consumption.
Consumer Guidance: What Should You Do?
Coca-Cola is urging customers to check their product production codes, found on the bottom of cans or the neck/label of glass bottles. If your product is part of the recall, you should return it to the point of purchase for a refund. The company has also confirmed it is working closely with regulatory authorities to ensure product safety in the future.
Coca-Cola issued an official statement:
“We’re sorry that on this occasion, a small number of our products have not met our high standards, and we apologize for any inconvenience this has caused.”
Bigger Picture: Growing Concerns Over Food Safety
This recall follows routine quality testing at Coca-Cola’s Ghent, Belgium production facility, where the elevated chlorate levels were first detected. Initially affecting Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, the recall was later extended to the UK following discussions with the UK Food Standards Agency (FSA).
Although Coca-Cola insists the health risk is low, the incident raises broader concerns about chemical exposure in food and beverages. This event also highlights the increasing scrutiny of food safety regulations and the need for stricter quality control measures in the industry.
For a detailed list of affected products, consumers are encouraged to visit the official Coca-Cola Europacific Partners website or contact customer service for further guidance.
