Coca-Cola Recalls Bevmages in Europe Due to Excessive Chlorate Content
Coca-Cola has announced the recall of several of its beverage variants in Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands due to excessively high levels of chlorate. The affected products include Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Fuze Tea, Minute Maid, Nalu, Royal Bliss, and Tropico, all with zero and light versions. The recall affects cans and bottles with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE, which can be found on the bottom of the can or on the neck/label of the glass bottle.
According to the European Commission, chlorate originates from chlorine disinfectants widely used in water treatment and food processing, with drinking water being the main contributor. Consuming high levels of chlorate from drinks and food can result in potential serious health effects, including impaired thyroid function and inhibition of iodine uptake, particularly harmful to infants and children.
The company apologized to consumers and business partners, stating that an independent expert analysis found that the risk to consumers is very low. People who purchased the affected products are advised not to consume them and to return them to the store for a refund.