Why Is Coca-Cola Recalling Drinks In Europe? Explained

Soft drink Coca-Cola has ordered the removal of certain batches of products from several European countries after reports of elevated levels of a thyroid-disrupting chemical, chlorate, being detected surfaced.

Recall Across Three European Countries

Coca-Cola’s European division has issued a recall for products in Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. This applies to a range of Coca-Cola products, including Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Tropico, and Minute Maid brands, according to several reports. According to Bloomberg, bottles and cans containing excessive levels of chlorate have been sold across various European markets, including Belgium, the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, France, and Luxembourg, since November. The company has urged consumers to return any affected products with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE inclusive.

Health Risks of Chlorate Exposure

Chlorate, when consumed in excessive amounts, can cause symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and can impair the blood’s ability to absorb oxygen. These findings are based on recent studies into the chemical. The elevated levels of chlorate were discovered during a routine sample check at Coca-Cola’s production facility in Ghent, Belgium, BBC reported.

Company’s Response And Apology

AFP, cited by BBC, reported that most of the unsold products had already been removed from the market, and the company is working to recall the remaining items. A Coca-Cola spokesperson reaffirmed the company's commitment to the highest standards of responsibility for its products and their safety.

The company has advised customers not to consume drinks from the affected batches and to return them to the point of purchase for a refund. "We apologize to our consumers and business partners," the company stated, AP reported.