Major Soft Drink Recall: Coca-Cola Products Pulled Over Health Concerns

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A significant recall of popular soft drinks, including Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, and Fuze Tea, has been initiated across Europe due to potential health risks linked to high levels of chlorate, a chemical by-product from chlorine disinfectants. The recall affects products produced at a Coca-Cola factory in Ghent, Belgium, and includes beverages distributed in Belgium, the Netherlands, the UK, Germany, France, and Luxembourg since November.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK is currently investigating the presence of products containing "higher levels" of chlorate on the market, although no official recall has been announced for the UK as of yet. Anne Gravett from the FSA indicated that the authority is examining the situation closely.

Chlorate can potentially cause iodine deficiency and is commonly associated with water treatment and food processing. Coca-Cola has stated that the majority of contaminated products have already been removed from store shelves, and efforts are ongoing to eliminate all remaining affected items.

Belgium’s food safety regulator has confirmed the recall, specifically targeting cans and returnable glass bottles with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. Consumers are advised to check product codes for safety.

Although independent experts have concluded that the associated risk is "very low," Coca-Cola emphasizes the importance of safety and compliance in their operations.

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