The European bottling unit of Coca-Cola has issued a major recall of Coke, Sprite, Fanta, and other beverages after routine checks revealed high levels of chlorate, a chemical that poses potential health risks.
According to Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belgium, affected products were distributed across Belgium, the Netherlands, Britain, Germany, France, and Luxembourg since November 2024.
“We do not have a precise figure, but it is clear that it is a considerable quantity,” the company stated.
Chlorate is a byproduct of chlorine disinfectants commonly used in water treatment and food processing. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has warned that long-term exposure can be particularly harmful to children, especially those with iodine deficiencies.
Coca-Cola assured consumers that most of the affected and unsold products have been removed from stores, and efforts are ongoing to withdraw all remaining stock.
The recall includes products under the Minute Maid, Fuze Tea, Nalu, Royal Bliss, and Tropico brands. The affected batch numbers range from 328 GE to 338 GE.
While the recall applies to several European countries, Coca-Cola France stated that French market products were not included in the recall order. Independent experts in France concluded that the risk associated with the contamination was very low, and the company has not received consumer complaints.
“We are in contact with the competent authorities in each of the affected markets,” Coca-Cola Europacific Partners said.
Coca-Cola apologised for the issue, explaining that the contamination was discovered during a routine check at its production facility in Ghent, Belgium.
The recall raises concerns about food safety standards and regulatory oversight, as authorities in the affected countries monitor the situation closely.
