Coca-Cola Recalls Soft Drinks in UK over Chemical Contamination Risk

Coca-Cola has pulled a selection of its soft drinks from UK shelves following overseas tests that revealed elevated levels of chlorate, a chemical linked to iodine absorption issues. The recall impacts specific batches of Appletiser, Diet Coke, and Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. While the company insists the health risk is low, authorities continue to monitor the situation closely.

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Coca-Cola Recalls Soft Drinks in UK over Chemical Contamination Risk | en.Econostrum.info - United Kingdom

Following regular testing overseas that found high levels of chlorate, a substance that can obstruct the body’s ability to absorb iodine, a “small number” of Coca-Cola and Appletiser cans have been recalled in the UK. Supermarkets, coffee shops, and dining establishments were the main recipients of the impacted products, which include multipacks of Appletiser and some Coca-Cola varieties.

The recall follows similar actions across Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, where health authorities flagged the chemical levels as exceeding regulatory limits. Although the risk of adverse health effects is considered low, UK consumers who have purchased the affected cans are advised to contact Coca-Cola Europacific Partners’ (CCEP) customer service team for assistance.

Limited recall of imported soft drink cans

Only certain imported batches of Appletiser, Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, and Sprite Zero are subject to the recall, according to Coca-Cola Europacific Partners. Production codes, which are located on the base of the affected cans, range from 328 GE to 338 GE.

A company spokesperson stated: “Following ongoing dialogue with the Food Standards Agency (FSA), we are recalling a small number of imported cans of 6 x 250ml Appletiser multipacks. We are also removing a small amount of tall, imported cans of Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke and Sprite Zero.”

The majority of Coca-Cola products, including standard-sized cans and all glass and plastic bottles sold in the UK, are not affected. The company also emphasised that independent analysis suggests the risk of illness from consuming these drinks is very low. However, as a precautionary measure, consumers in possession of these products are encouraged to reach out to the customer service helpline.

Chlorate exposure and regulatory concerns

The recall was initiated after food safety testing in Europe detected chlorate levels exceeding legal thresholds in the affected batches. Chlorate is a by-product of chlorine-based sanitisers, commonly used in water sterilisation. While low levels are generally considered safe, excessive intake can disrupt thyroid function by inhibiting iodine uptake, particularly in infants and young children.

In a 2015 report, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) noted that levels of chlorate in food and drinking water were greater than advised, highlighting possible health hazards related to exposure. As a result, stringent restrictions on chlorate residues in consumer goods are enforced by regulatory organizations such as Food Standards Scotland and the UK’s Food Standards Agency.

The FSA confirmed the UK distribution of affected Coca-Cola products was limited, and it continues to monitor the situation. Tina Potter, head of incidents at the FSA, reassured consumers that while the health risks are minimal, precautionary recalls help maintain food safety standards.

Consumers who identify affected cans are advised to avoid consumption and seek further guidance from Coca-Cola’s customer service.

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