Coca-Cola has issued a recall of some of its drinks across several European countries due to elevated levels of chlorate, a chemical that can pose health risks. Cans and bottles containing the contaminated substance were distributed in Belgium, Britain, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands starting in November.
The recall affects various brands, including Coke, Fanta, Minute Maid, Sprite, and Tropico. Coca-Cola confirmed that five product lines were shipped to Britain late last year and have already been sold. While the company states that independent expert analysis suggests the risk to consumers is very low, the recall is a precautionary measure.
Chlorate is a byproduct of chlorine disinfectants used in water treatment and food processing. Exposure to high levels can cause health problems, including thyroid issues, particularly in children and infants. The European Food Safety Authority has previously highlighted the potential health concerns of long-term chlorate exposure, especially for children with iodine deficiency.
Chlorate is a chemical compound that can be both naturally occurring and man-made. It is used in a variety of industrial applications, including:
- Bleaching paper and textiles
- Disinfecting water
- Manufacturing explosives
Exposure to high levels of chlorate can be harmful to human health. It can cause problems with the thyroid gland, which produces hormones that regulate metabolism. Children and infants are particularly vulnerable to the effects of chlorate exposure
Reference: TG
