Coca-Cola in UAE Declared Safe to Consume
The Coca-Cola products available in the United Arab Emirates are safe for consumption and do not contain high chlorate levels, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MoCCaE) confirmed on Thursday. After the European recall, the ministry and local regulatory authorities emphasized that the beverages distributed in the UAE comply with food safety regulations and standards.
Why is Coca-Cola safe to consume in the UAE?
Coca-Cola products in the UAE markets are locally produced at bottling plants located in Abu Dhabi, thus they do not fall under the scope of the European recall. On Monday, the European bottling unit announced a large-scale recall in several countries after checks revealed high chlorate levels in certain products.
The recall affects Belgium, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Luxembourg, and includes canned and bottled Coca-Cola, Sprite, and Fanta drinks distributed since November.
What to know about chlorate?
Chlorate is a compound that can originate from chlorine-based disinfectants widely used in drinking water purification and food processing. According to a 2015 scientific opinion by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA), long-term, high-level intake of chlorate can be potentially harmful, particularly for children suffering from mild or moderate iodine deficiency.
UAE authorities' commitment to food safety
The MoCCaE assured consumers that it continuously monitors food safety and collaborates with all relevant authorities to ensure that products available in the UAE meet strict health and safety requirements.
This assurance can reassure residents and visitors who can continue to enjoy Coca-Cola products without concern over the European recall.
