Major warning issued for Dubai-style chocolate over allergy risk

People with allergies should avoid Dubai-style chocolate, the food safety watchdog has warned, after many products failed to meet UK food standards.

These popular chocolates, typically filled with peanuts, tahini and grated phyllo, have become increasingly popular over the past year.

But the Food Standards Agency (FSA) discovered that “a number” of these products in the UK did not comply with important safety and labeling regulations.

The FSA’s director of policy, Rebecca Sudworth, confirmed: “We found that some products contained peanuts and sesame seeds which were not stated on the label.”

The organization emphasized that purchasing these bars would be “dangerous” for consumers with allergies.

The watchdog is currently reviewing sampling data from products currently on sale to verify that they meet food safety standards.

He added that he advises consumers with allergies to stay away from Dubai-style chocolate as a precaution until the full results are known.

Ms Sudworth added: “People with allergies should not eat Dubai chocolate.

“If you are going to buy a gift for someone who has allergies, our advice is not to buy these products. This includes all allergies, not just peanuts and sesame.”

“People without allergies can consume these products, especially those supplied by reputable brands and retailers.”

Jessica Merryfield, head of policy and campaigning at the Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI), said: “The legal requirements on this issue are clear – all foods containing allergens need to be clearly identified and labeled to enable consumers to make informed and safe choices.

“Not doing so is illegal and also extremely dangerous because it makes such foods unsafe for those with food allergies.

“We call on all food businesses, including retailers and importers, to take urgent steps to comply with the rules.”