The warnings indicate that tests on some counterfeit versions of Dubai chocolate revealed the presence of dangerous, unauthorized ingredients that could threaten the lives of people with food allergies.
The warnings specifically target a chocolate called "Can't Get Kunafa of It," created by Dubai-based pastry chef Sarah Hammouda. It typically contains a mixture of pistachios, tahini, and crispy filo pastry. This chocolate has become a global phenomenon, especially as Christmas approaches, with many seeking it as a unique gift.
The UK Food Standards Agency revealed the presence of counterfeit versions of these products on the market containing peanuts and sesame without these ingredients being declared on the labels, and with a clear absence of allergen warnings. Tests also indicated the presence of harmful additives and contaminants in some imported samples.
Official authorities issued strict warnings, with Rebecca Sadworth, the agency's policy director, explaining that allergy sufferers should completely refrain from consuming chocolates inspired by Dubai chocolate, and urging buyers to avoid purchasing these products as gifts for people with any type of allergy.
Jessica Merrifield of the Chartered Institute of Trading Standards warned that failure to place the correct warning labels is a legal violation and could lead to serious health consequences.
The main health risk is that people with allergies may experience a severe allergic reaction that can reach the level of "anaphylaxis," which can lead to serious swelling of the airways and difficulty breathing, and even cardiac arrest due to lack of oxygen.
Regulatory authorities advise ordinary consumers to ensure they purchase products only from trusted brands and retailers, while emphasizing that those with allergies should completely avoid these products in all their forms. They also urge distributors and importers to strictly adhere to ingredient lists and legal warnings.
This warning comes at a critical time with the peak of the Christmas shopping season, where the demand for unique gifts increases the risk of unsafe counterfeit products spreading in the markets, calling for greater awareness from consumers and stricter oversight from the relevant authorities.
