Coca-Cola has issued a recall of several products in three countries in Europe – Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands after routine testing detected higher-than-allowed levels of chlorate, a chemical that forms during water or food processing and can be harmful in elevated amounts.
The recall, which includes brands like Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Tropico, and Minute Maid, was confirmed by the company’s distribution team in Belgium. A “limited quantity” of the affected products was also shipped to Germany, France, and Britain, the company stated, adding it is in contact with regulators in those countries.
Issue with cans having codes from 328 GE to 338 GE
The specific issue involves imported cans with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE, which can be found on the base of the cans. Products such as Appletiser, Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, and Sprite Zero are affected.
The Dutch Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority has advised consumers not to drink the impacted beverages. Belgium’s Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain has also announced a recall, with most unsold items already removed from store shelves. Efforts are ongoing to withdraw the remaining stock.
Coca-Cola has recalled its drinks in some countries in Europe because they contain higher levels of chlorate. According to the Belgium branch of Coca-Cola’s international bottling and distribution operation, the affected products include Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Tropico & Minute Maid pic.twitter.com/D0BEzhIWps
— CRTVweb (@CRTV_web) January 28, 2025
Chlorate is a byproduct of chlorine-based disinfectants used in water treatment and food processing. Health experts warn that long-term exposure to high levels can cause thyroid problems, especially in children and infants.
It can also lead to nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and reduced oxygen absorption in the blood. Nutritionist Caron Grazette told the BBC that consumers should be cautious about ingesting chemicals, even in small amounts, noting that chlorate is also used in fireworks and disinfectants.
Despite these concerns, Coca-Cola emphasized that the associated health risks are minimal. “Independent expert analysis concludes that any associated risk for consumers is very low,” a spokesperson told the BBC.
Coca-Cola also noted it has not received complaints in Britain and is working closely with authorities to resolve the matter.
The elevated chlorate levels were discovered during routine testing at a bottling facility in Ghent, Belgium. While no additional recalls have been initiated outside the three main countries, Coca-Cola confirmed it is monitoring the situation in Germany, France, and Britain, where some products were distributed.
Anne Gravett from the Food Standards Agency (FSA) confirmed an investigation is underway. “If we identify any unsafe food, we’ll take action to ensure it is removed and alert consumers,” she added.
Coca-Cola has assured customers that it takes product quality and safety seriously. A Coca-Cola spokesperson said it “considers the quality and safety of its products as its top priority”. Consumers are advised to check production codes and return any affected items to the point of purchase for a refund.