Coca-Cola recalls drinks across Europe over high chlorate levels 

EU – Coca-Cola has issued a recall for several of its beverages across Europe after detecting elevated levels of the chemical chlorate during routine quality checks.  

The recall, which affects cans and glass bottles of Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Fuze Tea, Minute Maid, and other popular brands, was announced on January 27, 2025. 

The recall, managed by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Belgium, applies to products manufactured between November 23 and December 3, 2023, at its facility in Ghent, Belgium.  

Coca-Cola confirmed that the products in question were distributed in Belgium, the Netherlands, the UK, France, and Luxembourg. Tests conducted at the production site revealed that the chlorate levels exceeded acceptable limits.  

Chlorate is a chemical known to inhibit the absorption of iodine by the thyroid gland, potentially causing health issues, particularly for individuals with pre-existing thyroid conditions. 

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 The company stated that the majority of unsold products had already been withdrawn from shelves, and efforts to remove the remaining affected stock are ongoing.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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