Coca-Cola recalls a range of beverages across several European countries, including the UK, after discovering harmful levels of Chlorate in some products.

Coca-Cola has initiated a recall of several beverage lines across Europe after detecting “higher levels” of chlorate, a chemical that could pose potential health risks. The recall affects drinks distributed in Belgium, the UK, France, Germany, Luxembourg, and the Netherlands since November, including popular products like Coke, Fanta, Minute Maid, Sprite, and Tropico.

The company confirmed that five product lines were shipped to Britain towards the end of last year and had already reached consumers. Chlorate, a compound linked to chlorine disinfectants used in food processing and water treatment, can cause thyroid issues, particularly in children and infants. The European Food Safety Authority raised concerns in 2015 about long-term chlorate exposure affecting children’s health, especially those with iodine deficiencies.

Despite the concerns, Coca-Cola stated that independent experts found the associated risks to be minimal for consumers. While no complaints have been reported in the UK, the company is working closely with authorities to manage the recall. In France, some affected products, including Coke and Fuze Tea, were delivered, but no recall has been implemented there yet.

The contamination was discovered during routine testing at Coca-Cola’s production facility in Ghent, Belgium. The majority of affected products have been withdrawn from shelves, and the company is actively removing the remaining batches from the market.

Coca-Cola reassured consumers that the safety and quality of its products are top priorities, while the UK’s Food Standards Agency is investigating the matter further. Coca-Cola continues to collaborate with health authorities to address the issue and ensure product safety.