UK Issues Allergy Warning for Popular Dubai-Style Chocolate

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a warning for consumers to avoid Dubai-style chocolate, particularly those with food allergies. Several products have been found in the United Kingdom that do not comply with essential safety and labeling standards. These chocolate bars, often filled with pistachio, tahini, and shredded filo pastry, have gained popularity over the past year, but safety concerns have prompted this alert.

According to the FSA, some chocolate products were discovered to contain undeclared allergens, specifically peanut and sesame. Rebecca Sudworth, the FSA’s director of policy, stated, “We’ve found that some products contain peanut and sesame that aren’t declared on the label.” This lack of proper labeling poses significant risks for consumers with allergies, making these items potentially dangerous.

The FSA is currently reviewing sampling data from products available in the market to ensure they meet the necessary food safety regulations. Until the thorough results of this review are available, the agency strongly advises individuals with allergies to refrain from consuming Dubai-style chocolate. Sudworth emphasized, “People with an allergy should not eat Dubai-style chocolate. If you’re buying a gift for someone who lives with allergies, our advice is to avoid buying these products. This includes all allergies, not just peanut and sesame.”

While the warning primarily targets those with allergies, Sudworth noted that individuals without such conditions may safely consume these chocolates, particularly if sourced from reputable brands and retailers. The FSA’s caution reflects a broader commitment to consumer safety, particularly for vulnerable populations.

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) has also weighed in on the situation. Jessica Merryfield, head of policy and campaigns at CTSI, remarked, “The legal requirements on this are clear – any food containing allergens needs to be clearly identified and labelled as such to allow consumers to make informed and safe choices.” She further highlighted the seriousness of the issue, stating, “To not do this is illegal and also highly dangerous as it makes such foods unsafe to those with food allergies.”

Merryfield urged all food businesses, including retailers and importers, to take immediate steps to comply with labeling regulations. The FSA’s actions reflect a proactive approach to safeguarding public health, especially in light of the increasing demand for specialty chocolate products.

Consumers are advised to remain vigilant when purchasing food items, particularly those with known allergens. The public health implications of inadequate labeling cannot be overstated, and compliance with food safety standards is crucial in preventing allergic reactions.

As the review continues, the FSA remains committed to transparency and consumer safety, ensuring that all food products meet the highest standards before reaching the market.