Senegal halts flow of Coca-Cola

Rapid investigations launched over contaminated drinks

By Ogo Okparra in Dakar

The local affiliate in Senegal of the multinational Coca-Cola company has been ordered by the government to temporarily halt production of two of its flagship brands, Coca-Cola and Sprite.

The authorities took the unprecedented action in response to growing public outcry after several bottles were found to be contaminated.

If the investigations eventually incriminate the Coca Cola affiliates, sales of the two affected brands will be banned indefinitely

Commerce Minister Khoureissi Chiam

The minister for commerce said the ban will remain in force until government-sponsored tests determine whether or not the brands are fit for human consumption.

The managers of the company involved say they are not to blame and are pointing the finger at a rival company.

Indefinite ban

The Coke and Sprite saga began last week when a consumer protection organisation complained to the authorities that "slimy substances" were discovered in several one-litre bottles of the drink.

Several bottles were found with "slimy substances"

The response of the general public to the allegation was so strong that the government was compelled to launch rapid preliminary investigations.

According to Commerce Minister Khoureissi Chiam: "If the investigations eventually incriminate the Dakar-based Coca-Cola affiliate, sales of the two affected brands will be banned indefinitely."

Not only that, the minister said, but the affiliate could be shut down for good.

The Consumer Organisation also revealed that maggots and other creatures had been found in a popular brand of cheese sold in practically all supermarkets and neighbourhood shops in the country.