A dangerous soda has hit the market: what it contains and why it's harmful to our health.

Recently, Coca-Cola recalled several products in Europe due to the detection of elevated chlorate levels—a chemical compound associated with various health risks. Chlorate contamination, often a byproduct of water disinfection processes, raises concerns about its potential impact on human health, particularly among vulnerable groups such as children and infants. Although Coca-Cola has assured the public that the risks are minimal, this incident has once again highlighted chlorate and why it can be hazardous, as reported by The Guardian.

Chlorate is a chemical compound commonly found in water and food as a result of chlorine-based disinfectants. These disinfectants are widely used in water treatment facilities and the food industry to eliminate bacteria and other pathogens.

When chlorine compounds break down, they can form chlorates, which remain after the disinfectant is used. While small amounts of chlorates are generally considered safe, excessive levels can lead to various health complications, especially with prolonged exposure.

The primary danger of chlorates lies in their ability to disrupt the body's efficient use of iodine. Iodine is a crucial nutrient that supports the function of our thyroid gland, which regulates essential processes such as metabolism, growth, and development. Chlorate can hinder the absorption of iodine by the thyroid, leading to reduced production of thyroid hormones. Over time, this disruption can result in health issues related to the organ, including hypothyroidism, which causes symptoms such as fatigue, weight gain, and developmental delays in children.

The risks of complications are heightened for infants, children, and individuals with iodine deficiency, as their iodine reserves are lower and thyroid function is more sensitive to external interference. For instance, infants consuming formula made with water containing high chlorate levels may experience developmental and growth complications in the brain.

Even minor exposure over an extended period can exacerbate existing iodine deficiency in adults and lead to imbalances in thyroid hormones. In a scientific report published in the EFSA Journal by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) in 2015, researchers concluded that prolonged exposure to chlorate could pose health risks to children, especially in regions where iodine deficiency is prevalent, confirming its hazards.

Although most countries fortify table salt or other foods with iodine to prevent deficiency, cases of iodine deficiency still exist, and chlorate contamination can worsen the issue. EFSA has also established an acceptable daily intake limit for chlorate at 3 micrograms per kilogram of body weight.

In addition to thyroid-related issues, high levels of chlorate can impair the ability of red blood cells to carry oxygen, potentially leading to hemolysis. Hemolysis is the destruction of red blood cells, resulting in hemoglobin entering the bloodstream. This can disrupt the blood's ability to transport oxygen to tissues and cause symptoms such as fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath, and, in severe cases, jaundice.

This condition is rare and typically only occurs at very high doses, but it underscores the importance of maintaining chlorate levels in food and water within safe limits. Governments and food safety agencies in many countries have already established strict regulations regarding chlorate levels in water and food to minimize health risks to the population. For example, the European Union has clearly defined maximum limits for chlorate levels in drinking water and certain foods.

Regular inspections of food and beverage companies, such as the planned studies that identified the issue at Coca-Cola's facility, are crucial for detecting and eliminating contamination before products reach consumers and potentially harm millions.

This material is for informational purposes only and does not contain advice that may affect your health. If you are experiencing issues, please consult a specialist.