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U.K. food safety officials have cautioned Christmas shoppers that some viral Dubai chocolate products available in the country could be hazardous, particularly for those with food allergies.
The chocolate, which rose to international popularity on social media last year, typically contains pistachio, tahini, and shredded filo pastry, often referred to as “angel hair” or knafeh.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) said that certain manufacturers are producing low-quality and potentially dangerous imitation versions of the chocolate.
Several products currently available in the U.K. have failed to meet food safety and labeling regulations.
Rebecca Sudworth, director of policy at the FSA, said some of the chocolate bars were found to contain undeclared allergens, including peanuts and sesame. “People with an allergy should not eat Dubai-style chocolate,” she added.
The FSA also warned that some products may contain illegal food dyes, toxins from molds, and chemicals believed to be carcinogenic. The agency is continuing to survey and sample Dubai-style chocolate products on the UK market to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
Under U.K. law, food products must carry labels in English, including a clear product name, a full ingredient list with allergens emphasized, net weight, a best-before or use-by date, and the name and address of the responsible UK or EU business.
Health experts note that food allergies can result in severe and potentially fatal reactions.
An estimated 10 people die each year in the UK from food-related allergic reactions, while around 5,000 are hospitalized annually. Children are considered particularly vulnerable due to their smaller body size and the possibility that allergies may not yet have been diagnosed.
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