A total of 45 individuals have undergone examinations in hospitals across Croatia in recent days, with only four displaying throat injuries. The severity of the injuries varies, with the first patient being hospitalized for the most severe symptoms, while others have been discharged with milder symptoms.
At present, authorities believe this incident is isolated, involving only one person. Minister of Health Vili Beroš suggested that the issue might have arisen during the bottle-cleaning process, though investigations are ongoing. The cause of the contamination remains unknown, and efforts are underway to identify it swiftly.
Health Scare Unfolds as Authorities Investigate Suspected Cases
The withdrawn products pending analytical results are Coca-Cola Original 0.5-liter in a plastic bottle and Romerquelle Emotion Blueberry Pomegranate 0.33-liter. Analysis has shown elevated pH levels in the incident in Rijeka, linked to the Romerquelle drink served to one affected person. Officials suspect contamination with a cleaning or degreasing agent, although the intentionality of this contamination is yet to be determined.
State Inspectorate (DIRH) officers have inspected catering facilities and distributors in Rijeka. Samples of the Romerquelle brand were taken and tested for pH, metals, pesticides, and additives at the Croatian Institute of Public Health. The results indicated compliance with soft drinks and juice regulations.
In a separate incident at the University of Zagreb, inspectors tested samples from a vending machine and a retail store of Coca-Cola original and zero. Results suggested that the determined pH value could not have caused the reported symptoms, and other parameters were in line with legislation.
Coca-Cola HBC Hrvatska expressed relief at the expected clarity from the results and reiterated their commitment to supporting authorities transparently. The Croatian Institute of Public Health (HZJZ) issued general instructions to the public on dealing with potentially contaminated liquids, emphasizing signs such as altered taste and throat burning. Recommendations include ceasing consumption, avoiding inducing vomiting, preserving the beverage for further analysis, and promptly contacting emergency medical services if needed.
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