Published: 2025-08-13 11:12:52 | Views: 9
A well-known Coca-Cola beverage has been urgently pulled from UK supermarket shelves after tests revealed it may contain elevated levels of chlorate, a chemical by-product from chlorine-based disinfectants used in water treatment.
The recall affects specific batches of Appletiser, a sparkling apple juice drink, sold in six-can multipacks. Production codes ranging from 328 GE to 338 GE and use-by dates of November 30 or December 31 have been flagged as unsafe. The codes are printed on the base of each can.
Sainsbury’s, one of the major retailers stocking the product, has issued an immediate warning urging customers not to drink the affected batches and to return them for a full refund.
In a statement on its website, the supermarket said: “We are asking customers that have purchased the above products not to consume them and to return them to their nearest Sainsbury’s store, where they will receive a full refund.
"No other products have been affected by this issue. Appletiser would like to apologise for any inconvenience caused.”
Chlorate, while commonly present in trace amounts in food due to water treatment processes, can pose health risks when consumed in high quantities. Experts warn it may interfere with iodine uptake, which is especially concerning for children.
This is not the first time Coca-Cola has recalled Appletiser in the UK.
In January, the company, in cooperation with the Food Standards Agency (FSA), withdrew certain imported multipacks, along with a small number of Coca-Cola and Sprite cans supplied to cafes and restaurants.
Consumers with the affected product can contact Coca-Cola’s customer care line on 0800 227711 for more information.
The Food Standards Agency continues to monitor the situation, and customers are advised to check cans before drinking to avoid potential health risks.