Coca-Cola has announced a recall of several soft drink brands across 10 countries due to the presence of high levels of chlorate, a by-product of chlorine disinfectants. The contamination was identified during internal quality checks at a Belgian factory, prompting immediate action in coordination with food safety authorities.

The affected products include Coca-Cola, Sprite, Fanta, Fuze Tea, Minute Maid, Nalu, Royal Bliss, and Tropico in cans and glass bottles with production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE. Consumers are advised to check for the production code on the bottom of cans or neck/label of bottles. Other packaging formats such as PET plastic bottles and tetra packs remain unaffected.

Health authorities, including the Luxembourg Veterinary and Food Administration (ALVA), have warned that acute exposure to chlorate may impact oxygen absorption in the blood and potentially cause kidney issues, with children being particularly vulnerable.

The recall affects products distributed in Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, Russia, Suriname, and the United Kingdom. Consumers are urged not to consume the affected products and return them to the point of purchase for a refund.

Coca-Cola has apologized to consumers and business partners for the inconvenience and assured that corrective measures are being taken to prevent future occurrences.