Coca-Cola initiates a large-scale recall of its products in Europe due to higher than acceptable levels of the chemical chlorate

Coca-Cola has ordered a major recall of certain beverages due to elevated levels of chlorate, a chemical found in chlorine disinfectants used in water treatment and food processing. The affected products include cans and glass bottles of Coke, Sprite, Fanta, Minute Maid, Sprite, and Tropico brands distributed in Belgium, the Netherlands, Britain, Germany, France, and Luxembourg since November. The European Food Safety Authority has expressed concern that long-term exposure to chlorate can pose health risks, particularly for children.