Coca-Cola recalls drinks across Europe over chlorate safety concerns

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belux has initiated a voluntary recall of several beverages across Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands due to elevated levels of chlorate detected in certain batches. The company, working closely with local food safety authorities, has advised consumers not to consume the affected products, which include a wide range of popular drinks sold in cans and refillable glass bottles.

Brands impacted by the recall include Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Fuze Tea, Minute Maid, Nalu, Royal Bliss and Tropico. The affected items bear production codes between 328 GE and 338 GE, which can be found on the bottom of cans or on the neck or label of glass bottles. Products with other production codes, as well as those in PET plastic bottles, drink fountains and tetra-packs, are not part of the recall.

What is chlorate and what risks does it pose?

Chlorate, a byproduct of chlorine disinfectants widely used in water treatment and food processing, is commonly present in trace amounts in many foods and beverages, such as fruits, vegetables and dairy. However, routine testing at Coca-Cola’s production facility in Ghent revealed higher-than-acceptable levels in specific batches.

Prolonged exposure to high levels of chlorate may pose health risks, particularly for children and infants, potentially affecting thyroid function. The European Food Safety Authority previously highlighted concerns over long-term chlorate exposure in a 2015 report, suggesting it could particularly impact children with mild to moderate iodine deficiency. Despite this, Coca-Cola reassured customers in an official statement: “Independent expert research concludes that the risk to consumers is very low.”

The recall also extends to five product lines shipped to the UK late last year, which Coca-Cola confirmed have already been sold. Anne Gravett of the UK’s Food Standards Agency noted that investigations are ongoing, insisting: “If we identify any unsafe food, we’ll take action to ensure it is removed and alert consumers.”

Apology to consumers

Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belux has apologised to its consumers and commercial partners for the disruption, urging customers to return any affected items to their point of purchase for a full refund.

The company reiterated its commitment to maintaining high safety standards, stating: “It considers the quality and safety of its products as its highest priority.”