Khaberni - UK health regulatory authorities have sounded the alarm about the spread of chocolates inspired by Dubai chocolates and popular on social media platforms.
The warnings indicate that tests on some counterfeit versions of Dubai chocolate have revealed the presence of unauthorized, dangerous ingredients that could threaten the lives of people with food allergies.
The warnings specifically focus on a chocolate known as "Cant Get Kunafa Off It" created by confectionery expert Sara Hamouda in Dubai, which usually contains a mix of pistachios, tahini, and crispy phyllo pastry. This chocolate has turned into a global phenomenon, especially as Christmas approaches, with many people seeking it out as distinctive gifts.
The UK Food Standards Agency has revealed that counterfeit versions of these products in the market contain peanuts and sesame without being declared on the labels, with a clear absence of allergy warnings. Tests also indicated the presence of harmful additives and contaminants in some imported samples.
The official authorities have issued strict warnings, as Rebecca Sadworth, the Policy Director at the Agency, explained that those with allergies should completely refrain from consuming chocolates inspired by Dubai chocolates, and urged buyers to avoid purchasing these products as gifts for people with any allergies.
Jessica Merrifield from the Certified Institute of Trading Standards has warned that not placing the correct warning labels is considered a legal violation and could lead to severe health consequences.
The main health risk involves the possibility of people with allergies experiencing a severe allergic reaction, possibly reaching "anaphylaxis," which may lead to serious swelling in the airways, difficulty breathing, and ultimately cardiac arrest due to lack of oxygen.
The regulatory authorities advise ordinary consumers to make sure to purchase products only from trusted brands and vendors, while emphasizing the necessity for those with allergies to completely avoid these products in all forms. They also urge distributors and importers to strictly adhere to ingredient lists and legal warnings.
This warning comes at a critical time during the peak Christmas shopping season, where the increased demand for unique gifts raises the risk of unsafe counterfeit products spreading in the market, necessitating greater consumer awareness and stricter oversight by the relevant authorities.
