The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued an urgent recall for specific Coca-Cola products sold across the UK due to concerns over elevated levels of chlorate, a chemical used commonly as a disinfectant.
Following inspections and testing conducted by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, the company has identified potential contamination affecting cans of Appletiser, as well as popular beverages including Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, and Sprite Zero. This action was prompted after chlorate levels above the accepted thresholds were detected.
On January 29, 2025, Coca-Cola announced the recall, which is limited to cans with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. These cans primarily include 6x250ml multipacks of Appletiser sent exclusively to UK supermarkets and specific tall, imported cans of Coca-Cola products distributed to cafes and restaurants.
A spokesperson for Coca-Cola stated: "Following our dialogue with the UK Food Standards Agency, we are recalling these products as precautionary measures." The company emphasized: "The quality and safety of our products is our top priority and we apologize for any inconvenience this may have caused."
The elevated chlorate levels were initially discovered during routine testing at Coca-Cola's production facility located in Ghent, Belgium. The FSA has stated the likelihood of adverse health effects from consuming affected products is low for most consumers. Yet, individuals with pre-existing conditions, such as iodine deficiency, thyroid issues, or compromised kidney functions, may be more susceptible to these health risks.
Caron Grazette, NHS and private nutritionist, commented on the potential health risks, saying: "These chemicals are also used commonly in fireworks production. It's relevant to question if we want to ingest such substances, no matter how minimal the amounts." Symptoms of exposure to high levels of chlorate can include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even seriously impaired oxygen absorption ability, especially for vulnerable individuals.
The FSA recommended consumers who may have purchased the impacted products refrain from consuming them and instead contact Coca-Cola's customer service team for guidance: 0800 227711. Customers are encouraged to check the base of their cans for the specific production codes to confirm whether their beverages are affected.
For consumers who might be concerned about the possible effects of chlorate consumption, the FSA clarified, "Chlorate poses low food safety risks when consumed occasionally, but may adversely affect sensitive individuals, particularly children and those already dealing with health issues." These complications include risks of goitre due to iodine uptake inhibition when chlorate is consumed over extended periods.
The recent recall also follows earlier withdrawals of Coca-Cola products across the continent, namely Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands, spurred by heightened awareness after inspections linked the chemical to potential public health hazards. Coca-Cola Europacific Partners has committed to working closely with the FSA throughout the recall process.
All standard cans, as well as all glass and plastic bottles sold within the UK remain unaffected by this recall, allowing most consumers to shop for their favorite Coca-Cola products without concern.
Coca-Cola emphasized its commitment to product quality and safety, stating, "We are sorry for this incident and are implementing measures to avoid future occurrences. Our consumers’ health remains our utmost priority." Point of sale notices have been set up across all retail outlets where the affected drinks were available, providing necessary instructions for consumers.
Consumers are reminded of the importance of adhering to product recalls and are encouraged to follow any recommendations issued by health authorities. Regular updates will continue to be provided by both Coca-Cola and the FSA as new information arises.
For future reference, individuals visiting local retailers should pay close attention to displayed notices and do not hesitate to seek clarification from staff should they have queries related to specific products.
The importance of maintaining food safety standards cannot be overstated, and this recall serves as a reminder to remain vigilant about the products we consume.