The Coca-Cola Company has temporarily suspended production at its fairlife dairy business in the United States after a ransomware attack compromised parts of the company's production-related computer systems.
The global beverages company said the wholly-owned subsidiary identified unauthorised access by a third party to some of its systems, including those related to production, in connection with a ransomware event.
After detecting the issue, the company promptly activated its incident response and business continuity protocols.
“The company’s investigation and assessment of the impact of the incident is ongoing, with the assistance of outside advisors and cybersecurity experts,” Coca-Cola said in a press release.
“The company has also notified law enforcement. The full scope, nature and impacts of the incident are not yet known.”
Coca-Cola said although product quality and food safety had not been affected, production at fairlife's U.S. facilities have been temporarily suspended while systems were restored.
Production in Canada continues unaffected.
Coca-Cola fully acquired Chicago-based fairlife from Select Milk Producers in 2020 for about US$7 billion, broadening its portfolio with a high-protein offering.
Fairlife produces premium ultra-filtered milk and other dairy beverages containing higher protein and lower sugar than conventional milk.
The brand has become one of Coca-Cola's fastest-growing businesses since the beverage giant acquired the remaining stake it did not already own.
Coca-Cola (NYSE: KO) shares closed $2.47 (3.00%) higher at $84.92 on Thursday (Friday AEST).
