FSA warns Dubai chocolate may be unsafe for those with allergies

The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has advised those with allergies to avoid Dubai-style chocolate, which is usually filled with pistachio cream and kadaif (chopped filo pastry).

The government body said that some of these products may contain allergens such as peanut and sesame that are not declared on the label.

The FSA is currently reviewing sampling data from products on sale to check whether they meet the required food safety and labelling standards. Until the work is complete and the full results are known, it is advising people with allergies avoiding eating the chocolate as a precaution. 

Rebecca Sudworth, director of policy at the FSA, said: “Dubai-style chocolate has become hugely popular, but we’ve found that some products contain peanut and sesame that aren’t declared on the label. For someone with allergies, this could be dangerous. There is a risk that some products on sale may not meet our strict UK standards.

“We’re reminding businesses of their responsibility to ensure the safety of the food products they sell. We’re continuing to monitor these products and will provide further advice.”

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) warned businesses that failure to clearly identify and label allergens on food products was illegal.

Jessica Merryfield, chartered trading standards practitioner and head of policy and campaigns, said: “We urge all food businesses, including retailers and importers, to take immediate steps to comply. Businesses who are not sure if they are affected by this warning should contact their local Trading Standards service for advice and guidance.”

The FSA is advising those who do choose to Dubai-style chocolate to purchase it from a reputable retailer and check that the product label is in English and lists the name of the food; the ingredients, with allergens emphasised; the weight of the food in grams; a best before or use by date; and the name and address of the UK or EU business responsible for the product information.

If the food is not from the UK or EU, the name and address of the importer must be included.