Richard Parks Coca-Cola has issued a recall for several soft drink brands in Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands due to elevated levels of chlorate. While the company assures that the risk to consumers is minimal, it is taking precautionary measures to remove the affected products from the market.
Which Products and Countries Are Affected?
The recall primarily impacts Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. However, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, the company responsible for bottling and distribution in Europe, revealed that small quantities of the affected drinks were also shipped to other countries.
The recalled products reportedly include popular brands such as Coca-Cola, Fanta, Sprite, Tropico, and Minute Maid. The increased chlorate levels originate from disinfectants commonly used in water treatment and food processing.
To determine if a product is affected, consumers should check for production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE, which are printed on the bottom of cans or the neck of bottles.
Health Risks Associated with Chlorate Exposure
Chlorate can disrupt iodine absorption in the thyroid, leading to temporary hormone imbalances. Individuals with thyroid conditions, infants, and young children are particularly at risk. However, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) states that a single exposure poses only a negligible risk to health.
The European Union sets strict limits on chlorate levels in food and beverages, which were exceeded in the recalled drinks. Despite this, Coca-Cola emphasized that independent expert evaluations confirm the risk to consumers remains very low.
Coca-Cola’s Response and Previous Recalls
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners has assured that it is cooperating with regulatory authorities in the affected countries to ensure the swift removal of these products. In other European countries where small quantities were shipped, no additional recalls have been issued.
A company spokesperson reaffirmed, “The quality and safety of our products are our top priorities.” Consumers are advised to check product labels and reach out to customer service if they have any concerns.
This is not the first time Coca-Cola has faced a product recall in Europe. Last year, the company recalled millions of plastic bottles in Austria over fears that they might contain metal fragments.
Coca-Cola remains committed to upholding high safety standards and quality control and is taking all necessary actions to ensure that the affected beverages are swiftly removed from circulation.