Coca-Cola has recalled several soft drinks in the UK after elevated levels of chlorate were found during routine testing. The recall affects Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke, and Sprite Zero cans supplied to cafes and restaurants, as well as 6x250ml Appletiser multipacks sold in UK supermarkets.
This move follows a wider Coca-Cola product recall across Europe, including Belgium, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands. Coca-Cola Europacific Partners, the firm’s bottling partner, stated that the risk to consumers is very low, with affected cans carrying production codes 328 GE to 338 GE. However, most Coca-Cola products, including glass and plastic bottles, remain unaffected.
Chlorate can form when chlorine-based disinfectants are used in water treatment and food processing. High exposure can lead to thyroid problems, nausea, vomiting, and reduced oxygen absorption, particularly in infants and children.
Nutritionist Caron Grazette questioned the presence of chemicals like chlorate in soft drinks, noting that it is also used in fireworks and disinfectants. However, Coca-Cola Europacific Partners reassured customers that independent analysis found the risk of illness to be minimal.
“The quality and safety of our products is our top priority,” the company said in a statement, apologising for any inconvenience caused. Consumers who have purchased affected Coca-Cola products are advised to check production codes and visit the UK Food Standards Agency website for updates on food recalls.
