Coca-Cola triggered a recall of certain drinks in several European countries due to security problems involving higher than accepting chlorate levels, a chemical by-product.
The recall affects products in Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands, with a small number of products also shipped to the United Kingdom, where they have already been sold.
The affected drinks include Coca-Cola popular brands such as Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Tropico and Minute Maid. Chlorate can form when chlorine -based disinfectants are used in water treatment and food processing.
However, Coca-Cola stressed that independent expert analysis indicates that the risk for consumers is very low. No complaints to consumers have been reported in the United Kingdom, and the company is working closely with the authorities to resolve the problem.
The products recalled include specific cans from Appleser, Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke and Sprite Zero, with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE, which can be found at the base of cans.
Health experts, such as Caron Grazette, nutritionist, have raised concerns about the potential risks of ingestion of chemicals such as chlorate, which is also used in fireworks and disinfectants.
High levels of chlorate can cause health problems such as thyroid problems, especially in children and infants, and symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and absorption of altered oxygen.
The problem was discovered during routine tests at the Coca-Cola production installation in Ghent, Belgium. While the majority of the units not sold have been removed from the shelves, the company continues to withdraw the remaining actions.
Coca-Cola has reiterated that the safety and quality of its products remain an absolute priority. The British Food Standards agency is also investigating the issue, managers assuring the public that all dangerous products will be quickly withdrawn from traffic.
