Panel Rejects Coke’s Explanation of Scare

The cause of the health scare that led to bans on Coca-Cola products in Belgium and France remains a mystery, according to a report from the European Commission, which rejected the company’s initial explanation as “highly unlikely.” The report was posted Monday on the Web site of the consumer affairs department of the European Union’s executive body. Commission inspectors criticized the Belgian and French authorities’ handling of the scare and demanded they continue efforts to pinpoint the problems that led to the biggest product recall in Coke’s history after dozens of people reported becoming ill. French and Belgian health authorities insisted their prompt action contained the scare; they said they doubt the need for further investigation. Coke officials could not be immediately reached for comment. Separately, Coke said it is investigating the complaint of a Belgian woman who said her can of Coke tasted of paint thinner.