Coca-Cola Europacific Partners has issued a significant recall of its beverages, including popular drinks like Coke, Sprite, Fuze Tea, and Minute Maid, following the discovery of elevated chlorate levels in products sold across several European countries. The recall, announced on Monday, affects beverages distributed in Belgium, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Luxembourg since November. The company confirmed that although the exact quantity of affected drinks is unclear, it is substantial.
Chlorate, a substance that can be present in food due to chlorine disinfectants used in water treatment and food processing, has been identified as a potential health risk. According to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), long-term exposure to chlorate could be a concern, particularly for children, especially those with mild or moderate iodine deficiencies. However, EFSA’s 2015 opinion noted that the primary risk was linked to prolonged exposure, and immediate health concerns are unlikely in the short term.
The recall was triggered by a routine check at Coca-Cola’s production site in Ghent, where the elevated chlorate levels were detected. In response, the company has taken swift action to remove affected products from store shelves, and efforts to ensure the remaining stock is withdrawn from the market are ongoing. While the recall is being implemented across most affected regions, Coca-Cola’s French branch has stated that independent experts have assessed the potential health risks as very low, with no consumer complaints reported in relation to the incident.
Products involved in the recall include not only Coca-Cola and Sprite but also brands such as Tropico, Royal Bliss, and Nalu, with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. Coca-Cola has assured consumers that the recall was initiated as a precautionary measure to safeguard public health.
The company has expressed regret over the situation, emphasizing that the recall stems from its commitment to ensuring the safety and quality of its products. Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belgium continues to work with relevant authorities in each affected market to address the issue swiftly and effectively.
While this recall is significant in scope, the overall risk to public health remains minimal, according to expert assessments. Nonetheless, Coca-Cola’s proactive response reflects the company’s dedication to maintaining high safety standards in its production processes and consumer protection across its European operations.
