The UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA) has initiated an investigation after Coca-Cola recalled several beverages in European markets due to high levels of chlorate, a chemical linked to potential health risks.
The European bottling unit of Coca-Cola announced on Monday the urgent withdrawal of Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, and other drinks in Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. The recall applies to products with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE after routine quality control at the company’s bottling facility in Ghent, Belgium, detected excessive chlorate levels.
Health Concerns Over Chlorate Exposure
Chlorate, a byproduct of chlorine disinfectants commonly used in water treatment and food processing, has been associated with kidney problems and thyroid function issues. Regulatory agencies in affected countries have raised concerns, particularly for children, who may be more vulnerable to long-term exposure.
A 2015 scientific review by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) warned that sustained chlorate consumption could pose health risks, particularly for children with iodine deficiencies.
Swift Action by European Authorities
Following the recall, Luxembourg’s Veterinary and Food Administration highlighted the potential risks to children, while the Netherlands’ Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority advised consumers to avoid drinking the affected products.
As other European nations assess Coca-Cola beverages for possible contamination, the company stated that most of the impacted products had already been removed from store shelves. However, it did not disclose the exact number of drinks affected.
A Coca-Cola spokesperson reassured consumers, citing an independent expert analysis that deemed the health risk from the contaminated products as “very low.”
Production Scale and Ongoing Monitoring
The bottling facility in Ghent, which processes 66,000 glass bottles and 120,000 cans per hour, continues to operate as authorities monitor the situation. The FSA’s investigation will determine whether any contaminated Coca-Cola products were distributed in the UK.
As the inquiry progresses, regulatory agencies across Europe remain vigilant, ensuring consumer safety while evaluating potential contamination risks in Coca-Cola’s supply chain.
