Croatian authorities investigating the suspected poisoning have instructed Coca-Cola to recall the two products.
Current suspicions hinge on some type of chemical contamination.
A total of 45 people were tested in hospitals across Croatia in recent days, but only four had injuries to their throats. The first patient was admitted with the most serious injuries, but most of the other patients were discharged with mild injuries.
Authorities currently believe it was an isolated incident with only one person involved.
Health Minister Vili Beroš said the problem may have occurred while cleaning the bottles, but an investigation was ongoing.
“The cause is still unknown, so all agencies are working on it and our task is to find out as soon as possible,” he said on Croatian television.
So far, all but one sample is transparent.
Pending the receipt of the analysis results, two products were withdrawn from the Croatian market. Coca-Cola Original 0.5 liter plastic bottle and Romeker Emotion Blueberry Pomegranate 0.33 liter.
Analysis revealed that the Rijeka incident resulted in high pH levels and was linked to the Romerkel drink served to one of the affected individuals. Officials said it was likely contaminated with some type of cleaning agent or degreaser. It is not yet clear whether this was intentional or an accident. Twenty other tests on the same drink in its original packaging revealed normal pH levels.
Officials from the State Inspection Department (DIRH) inspected catering facilities and distributors in Rijeka. As part of this, his four samples of Romeker Brand were taken and tested at the Croatian Institute of Public Health. These were analyzed for pH, metals, pesticides and additives and were compliant with soft drink and juice regulations.
Following a separate incident at the University of Zagreb, inspectors took three samples from Coca-Cola Original and Zero vending machines and retail stores. As a result, it was found that the measured pH value could not cause the reported symptoms and other parameters were also in compliance with the law.
Coca-Cola HBC Hrvatska said: “After the uncertainty of the previous day, we welcome the clarity of the outcome to our consumers and customers. Our thoughts continue to be with those affected by the incident.” Ta.
“In the interest of public safety, our priority in recent days has been to give the authorities the time they need to complete their analysis, and we will continue to support the police working on the Rijeka case with full transparency. ”
The Croatian Institute of Public Health (HZJZ) has issued general instructions to the public on dealing with the ingestion of suspicious liquids.
HZJZ said possible signs of contamination include a change in the taste of the drink and a burning sensation in the throat. Advice included discontinuing intake of liquids, not inducing vomiting, storing drinks for further analysis and contacting the nearest emergency medical services immediately.
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