Coca-Cola has announced a recall of several of its popular beverages across Europe after routine quality checks detected higher-than-acceptable levels of the chemical chlorate.
The recall, which was issued on January 27, 2025, affects a range of products, including Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Fuze Tea, and Minute Maid, sold in both cans and glass bottles.
The recall, managed by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belgium, applies to products manufactured between November 23 and December 3, 2023, at the company’s facility in Ghent, Belgium.
These products were distributed in several European countries, including Belgium, the Netherlands, the UK, France, and Luxembourg.
Health Concerns Linked to Chlorate
Chlorate is a chemical compound that can interfere with the thyroid gland’s ability to absorb iodine, potentially leading to health issues, especially for individuals with pre-existing thyroid conditions.
Tests conducted at the production site revealed that the chlorate levels in the affected beverages exceeded the acceptable limits, prompting the recall.
Coca-Cola statement
In a statement, a Coca-Cola spokesperson reassured consumers that “independent expert analysis concludes that any associated risk for consumers is very low.”
The company has not reported any consumer complaints in the UK or other affected countries. Authorities have been notified, and Coca-Cola is working closely with them to ensure public safety.
The recall involves products with production codes ranging from 328GE to 338GE. While there were initial concerns about the potential distribution of affected products in Germany, Coca-Cola confirmed that no contaminated beverages had been sold directly within the German market.
In France, some batches of Coke and Fuze Tea were delivered, but the recall has not yet been enforced there. The company stated that the majority of unsold products had already been withdrawn from shelves, and efforts to remove the remaining affected stock are ongoing.
Coca-Cola launches new flavor
Meanwhile, Coca-Cola is preparing to launch a new product, Coca-Cola Orange Cream, on February 10 in the U.S. and Canada.
The flavor combines cola with orange and vanilla, aiming to tap into growing consumer demand for nostalgic tastes.
This launch comes after the short-lived Coca-Cola Spiced, which was discontinued after a few months.
Unlike its predecessor, Orange Cream is expected to remain available until early 2026, with the final timeline depending on consumer reception.
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