Coca-Cola
By Chris Williams
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, the European bottling arm of Coca-Cola, has initiated a significant recall of Coke, Sprite, and other beverages after detecting elevated levels of chlorate in its products. The affected drinks, distributed since November 2024, were sold across Belgium, the Netherlands, Britain, Germany, France, and Luxembourg.
The company confirmed that the contamination was discovered during a routine quality check at its production facility in Ghent, Belgium. “We do not have a precise figure, but it is clear that it is a considerable quantity,” Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belgium said in a statement.
What Is Chlorate and Its Health Risks?
Chlorate, a chemical derived from chlorine disinfectants used in water treatment and food processing, can be harmful in high concentrations. A 2015 scientific opinion by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) highlighted potential health risks from long-term exposure to chlorate, particularly for children with mild or moderate iodine deficiencies.
Despite the findings, Coca-Cola’s French division stated that independent experts have determined the probability of health risks associated with the contamination to be “very low.” “We have not received any complaints from consumers on this subject,” the French branch added.
Affected Products and Markets
The recall includes popular Coca-Cola brands such as Coke, Sprite, Minute Maid, Nalu, Royal Bliss, Tropico, and Fuze Tea. Products in cans and glass bottles with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE have been identified as affected.
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners emphasised that “the majority of the affected and unsold products have already been removed from store shelves,” with ongoing measures in place to retrieve any remaining items.
In France, however, the recall does not yet apply to the local market, although some affected batches of Coke and Fuze Tea were delivered. Coca-Cola stated that it is closely monitoring the situation and working with competent authorities in all impacted countries.
Steps Taken by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners
Coca-Cola has apologised for the inconvenience caused by the recall, reiterating its commitment to quality and safety. The company is collaborating with regulators and health authorities in each of the affected countries to manage the situation.
The company assured customers that it continues to prioritise their safety and has strengthened its quality control measures to prevent similar issues in the future. “We are in contact with the competent authorities in each of the affected markets,” the firm stated.
Consumer Guidance
Consumers who have purchased the affected products are advised to check the production codes on cans and bottles. If the product falls within the specified batch codes, they should refrain from consumption and return the item to the point of purchase for a refund or replacement.
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners encouraged customers to reach out to their customer service teams for further information or assistance regarding the recall.
Impact on Coca-Cola’s Reputation
The recall marks a challenging moment for Coca-Cola, as the contamination incident raises questions about the effectiveness of its production and quality assurance processes. While the company has acted swiftly to address the issue, public confidence in its products may face temporary setbacks.
Industry analysts believe that the incident underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols in food and beverage production, particularly for global brands with extensive supply chains.
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