The Food Standards Agency has launched an investigation into whether any products by Coca-Cola Europacific Partners on sale in the UK contain high levels of chlorate.
“The Food Standards Agency (FSA) is investigating if any Coca-Cola products containing ‘higher levels’ of a chemical called chlorate are on the UK market,” said the FSA’s Anna Gravett. “If we identify any unsafe food, we’ll take action to ensure it is removed and alert consumers.”
It comes after CCEP recalled drinks in Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands following “routine” tests that identified “elevated levels” of chlorate.
Chlorate is a byproduct of chlorine disinfectants used in water treatment and food processing. Overconsumption of the chemical can cause iodine deficiency, and it is therefore subject to strict legal limits in food produce.
CCEP products affected by the recall included Appletiser, Coca-Cola Original Taste, Coca-Cola Zero Sugar, Diet Coke and Sprite Zero, as well as several regional brands not widely sold in the UK. They feature production codes from 328 GE to 338 GE on the base of the cans.
The products had been in distribution since November, CCEP said, adding independent analysis had concuded any risk of “feeling temporarily ill” from consuming them was “very low”.
“Coca-Cola Europacific Partners considers the quality and safety of its products as its top priority,” a spokeswoman for CCEP said. “The recall is focused on Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands, where the majority of affected products have been withdrawn from sale.
“We have flagged this issue to the food safety authorities in Great Britain and we remain in communication with them. We have had no consumer complaints or concerns in Great Britain.”
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