Health authorities in Denmark, Portugal, and Romania have been alerted to check for potentially contaminated drinks on store shelves.

Coca-Cola Belgium has initiated a recall of several soft drink products due to elevated levels of chlorate detected in cans and bottles.

While Coca-Cola has not disclosed the exact chlorate levels found, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) considers a daily intake of up to 36 micrograms of chlorate per kilogram of body weight to be safe.

The issue was identified during routine checks, and independent analysis has indicated a very low risk to consumers.

The recall involves approximately 11 days of production, with affected products bearing production codes ranging from 328GE to 338GE.

This precautionary measure aims to mitigate potential health risks associated with long-term exposure to elevated chlorate levels.

Health authorities have noted that a single intake of chlorate is not harmful, although higher concentrations can damage red blood cells.

Consumers are advised not to consume the recalled products and to return them for a refund, with retailers obligated to accept returns.

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK is actively investigating the presence of Coca-Cola products with higher chlorate levels in the market.

Experts suggest that serious health effects from chlorate would require consuming a large quantity of the contaminated products, which is considered unlikely.

This recall follows a previous recall just three months prior, which also raised health concerns.

Products in plastic bottles, drink fountains, or tetra packs are not affected by this recall, and consumers should check production codes to identify affected items.