M6 brought to standstill as exploding sports drinks cause havoc for commuters during morning rush-hour – Telegraph.co.uk

Firefighters could be seen hosing down the gutted wagon with blackened cans littering the embankment on one side of the motorway.

It was initially believed the AKW Global Logistics vehicle was carrying tinned dog food which exploded during the blaze.

But firefighters have now revealed it was stocked full of cans of sports drink powder as well as white goods, malt grain, floor tiles and chocolate eggs.

Staffordshire Fire and Rescue Service confirmed three fire engines were sent to the scene along with a water carrier vehicle.

A spokesperson said: “The HGV, which was fully alight, was located between Junction 14 and Junction 15. “Fire crews worked to tackle the fire and once it was under control two engines left the scene.

“One fire engine from Stafford remains at the scene with the water carrier vehicle working to dampen down the materials and ensure the fire is fully extinguished.

“It was initially believed that the load contained tinned dog food, with tins exploding in the fire. However, upon closer inspection it has been established the tins actually contain sports drink powder. The mixed load also contained white goods, malt grain, floor tiles and chocolate eggs.