On June 20, 2025, a purported screenshot allegedly from the European Commission’s website surfaced online, claiming the EU would ban carbon dioxide in soft drinks, beer, and mineral water starting in 2027. According to this false report, the initiative aims to significantly cut emissions by approximately 400 million tonnes annually under the “Fit for 55” climate program. The screenshot supposedly outlined penalties of up to €50,000 per liter for violations of this ban. However, a thorough investigation reveals that no such official statement exists on the European Commission’s website, nor is there any indication that the “Fit for 55” package contains provisions aimed at prohibiting CO2 in beverages.
The “Fit for 55” initiative is a comprehensive climate and energy strategy aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions by at least 55% by 2030, with reference to 1990 levels. The initiative is designed to ensure a fair and socially just transition while promoting innovation and competitiveness within EU industries. It seeks to maintain equitable conditions for economic operators outside the EU and strengthen the European Union’s position as a leader in the global climate change fight. Key measures of the program include strict CO2 emissions standards for vehicles, with a target of achieving zero emissions from new cars and vans by 2035. Additionally, it plans to reform the EU Emissions Trading System and introduce a Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism to address carbon leakage and ensure fair competition in the market.
Despite the compelling narrative in the alleged screenshot, it has been debunked as a fabrication. The specifics of the document do not align with authentic European Commission press releases, suggesting it was created to mislead the public. For instance, the image of European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen used in the screenshot dates back to 2019, demonstrating a glaring lack of relevance. The blurred, low-resolution logo of the Commission and the omission of standard elements—such as a language selection option and a publication date—further highlight its unauthenticity.
The errors are so extensive that they raise doubts about the credibility of the source. One prominent typo, for instance, refers to the Commission as “Kommission,” misspelling it with a single S, while the correct German name is “Europäische Kommission.” This kind of misinformation frequently targets EU initiatives, often misinterpreting or exaggerating their content to incite public anxiety. Previous instances of this trend include claims that the EU intended to ban coffee after categorizing caffeine as a health risk, which were also proven false.
In a broader context, the spread of such misinformation can significantly undermine trust in legitimate EU policies and initiatives. When the public is exposed to exaggerated claims, it creates confusion and fear concerning climate-related efforts. Therefore, verifying information through credible channels becomes increasingly essential, especially in the digital age, where unsubstantiated claims can go viral quickly.
In summary, while the EU’s “Fit for 55” initiative focuses on crucial climate goals, the alleged CO2 ban in beverages is unfounded. This misinformation only serves to divert attention from the genuine actions being taken to combat climate change, emphasizing the need for continuous awareness and critical evaluation of the information circulated online. It is imperative for individuals to seek clarification from official sources to distinguish between fact and fiction, fostering a more informed public discourse around climate policies and their implications.
