Coca-Cola issues European safety recall over 'excessively high chlorate content'

Core Viewpoint - Coca-Cola has initiated a recall of all variants of several beverages produced in a Belgium facility due to excessively high chlorate content, affecting products in Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands [1][5]. Product Recall Details - The recall includes cans and bottles of Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Fuze Tea, Minute Maid, Nalu, Royal Bliss, and Tropico, including zero and light versions [1]. - Affected production codes range from 328 GE to 338 GE [1][2]. Health Concerns - High levels of chlorate in food and drinks could lead to serious health effects, particularly impairing thyroid function and inhibiting iodine uptake, with infants and children being especially vulnerable [6]. - The European Commission indicates that chlorate originates from chlorine disinfectants used in water treatment and food processing [4]. Consumer Guidance - Consumers who purchased the affected products are advised not to consume them and to return them for a refund [5]. - Coca-Cola has stated that an independent expert analysis found the risk to consumers to be very low [7].