Coca-Cola and Sprite Cans Recalled Over Food Safety Concerns
Posted by Emma on 31st Jan 2025
A batch of Coca-Cola and Sprite cans distributed to cafes and restaurants across the UK has been recalled due to a potential food safety risk. Coca-Cola Europacific Partners confirmed that a “small number” of imported 330ml cans were affected by the recall following tests that detected elevated chlorate levels.
The affected products include Coca-Cola Original Taste (Best Before: 30 November 2025), Coca-Cola Zero Sugar (Best Before: 31 May 2025), Diet Coke (Best Before: 31 May 2025), and Sprite Zero (Best Before: 30 June 2025). Additionally, imported multipacks of Appletiser (six x 250ml cans) sold in UK supermarkets have also been recalled. The issue has been traced to specific production codes, 328 GE and 338 GE.
Potential Health Risks Identified
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has highlighted potential health concerns linked to chlorate exposure. While the general risk remains low, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions—such as thyroid deficiencies, kidney diseases, or blood disorders—may be more vulnerable to adverse effects. Children, in particular, could be at heightened risk.
Chlorate can interfere with iodine uptake over prolonged periods, potentially leading to thyroid complications such as goitre. In cases of high single-dose exposure, it can impair the body’s ability to absorb oxygen, with severe instances carrying the risk of kidney failure.
Consumer Advice and Next Steps
Coca-Cola Europacific Partners has reassured customers that its standard-sized cans and all glass and plastic bottles sold in the UK remain unaffected.
The FSA has advised consumers who have purchased the affected products to refrain from consuming them and to contact Coca-Cola’s customer service team at 0800 227711 for further assistance.
This recall serves as a reminder of the stringent food safety measures in place to protect public health, with regulatory bodies and manufacturers working swiftly to mitigate risks.