Coca Cola says pesticide level within EU norms

Coca Cola India today asserted that there was "no detectable level of pesticides" in soft drinks manufactured by it in India when measured against strict European Union standards.

"Our soft drinks have been regularly tested and evaluated by a world- renowned UK government laboratory -- Central Science Laboratories (CSL). All tests show that our soft drinks are below the EU criteria for pesticide residues in bottled water," Coke said for the first time since the controversy over pesticides began.

Meanwhile, the company also supported a move by the government to adopt clear criteria for pesticide residues in soft drinks, which are based on scientifically validated testing methods.

"We are working with relevant government bodies in India to develop and finalise the criteria along with their associated testing protocols for pesticide residues in soft drinks," Coca Cola said in a statement.