The batch of Coke Zero concentrate from Shanghai reportedly contains the banned preservative methyl-p-hydroxybenzoate (otherwise known as E219, an additive also banned in France and Australia, according to UK Food Guide. However, Wageningen University in the Netherlands (via Food-Info.net) claims the additive is relatively safe (no side effects experienced below a certain advised daily intake).
A representative from Coca-Cola, Zhai Mei, told China Daily that the preservative has been used in many areas, including the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and the US: “This ingredient is widely used as an acceptable and safe additive in food and drink, but Taiwan’s laws and regulations do not permit its use in sparkling beverages,” said Mei. “Coca-Cola maintains high-quality standards and our products are safe for consumption on the Chinese mainland. The sample tested by Taiwan authorities was Coke Zero concentrate, and the%age of the preservative would be much lower when diluted.”
Reports said 2.062g of the preservative was detected per kilogram in the Coke Zero concentrate in Taiwan. The level of methyl-p-hydroxybenzoate in Coke Zero after final dilution is only 0.015 mg/kg, which is lower than the national standard of about 200mg/kg, according to the company.
Coca-Cola Taiwan Co said the batch of Coke Zero concentrate was transported to Taiwan by mistake, and its products made in Taiwan do not have the preservative, said Beijing News.
Meanwhile, two other kinds of preservatives, benzoic acid and hexadienic acid, were also detected in excessive amounts in the sample of Coke products.
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