Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belux has launched a major recall of multiple products across Belgium, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, and the UK due to the detection of elevated levels of chlorate.
The recall, conducted in consultation with food safety authorities, highlights concerns over potential health risks associated with excessive exposure to the chemical, BBC reports on Wednesday.
A check by PUNCH Online on Thursday to the Coca-Cola Luxembourg and Belgium website, however, revealed that the announcement was released on January 27.
Some of the affected products are billed to expire in 2025 and 2026.
In Belgium and Luxembourg, the recall affects Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Fuze Tea, Minute Maid, Nalu, Royal Bliss, and Tropico products 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, remain unaffected. Consumers are advised to return affected products to the point of purchase for a refund.
Meanwhile, in the UK, Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, and Sprite Zero, specifically distributed to cafes and restaurants, have been pulled from circulation.
Additionally, 6x250ml multipacks of Appletiser sold in supermarkets are included in the recall. Coca-Cola stated that the majority of its UK products, including standard cans and all glass and plastic bottles, remain safe for consumption.
Health Concerns, Expert Warnings
Chlorate, which can form when chlorine-based disinfectants are used in water treatment and food processing, has been linked to thyroid issues, particularly in children and infants.
NHS and private nutritionist Caron Grazette told the BBC, “We need to question whether or not we want to digest chemicals in soft drinks which are used in the production of fireworks and disinfectants, however small the quantity.”
She further explained that excessive chlorate intake can lead to symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, and a reduced ability of the blood to absorb oxygen.
Despite these concerns, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners has reassured consumers that the health risk remains minimal.
“Independent expert analysis concluded that any associated risk of feeling temporarily unwell from consuming these products is very low,” the company said.
Company Apology, Consumer Guidance
Coca-Cola has emphasised that the quality and safety of its products remain a top priority, acknowledging the inconvenience caused to consumers and businesses.
“We’re sorry that on this occasion, a small number of our products have not met our high standards, and we apologise for any inconvenience this has caused.”
Consumers are urged to check their Coca-Cola products for the affected production codes and return them for a refund.
The company has also confirmed ongoing discussions with regulatory authorities to ensure product safety going forward.
Bigger Picture
This recall follows routine testing at Coca-Cola’s Ghent, Belgium production facility, where the elevated chlorate levels were first identified, the statement noted.
Initially affecting Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, the recall was later extended to the UK following consultations with the UK Food Standards Agency.
While Coca-Cola insists the health risk is low, the recall underscores growing concerns about chemical exposure in food and beverages.
With increased scrutiny of food safety regulations, this incident raises questions about industry standards and the need for heightened vigilance in quality control.
For a detailed list of affected products, the company enjoined consumers to visit the official Coca-Cola Europacific Partners website or contact customer service for further guidance.
(The PUNCH)
