Belgium Coca-Cola Poisoning Panic (1999)

In June 1999, Coca-Cola withdrew 30 million cans and bottles from Belgian shelves following over 100 reports of illness, including stomach cramps and nausea. Despite concerns about airborne toxins, an investigation by Belgium's Health Council suggested mass hysteria, emphasizing the role of media, health authorities' radical measures, and deficient communication by Coca-Cola. The company quickly rebounded, with sales recovering within weeks.