The UK food watchdog has issued a health warning regarding some imported Dubai-style chocolate products, following concerns over inadequate allergen labelling and potential contamination.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) said consumers should only buy from “trusted” retailers, with its Chief Scientific Advisor, Professor Robin May, stating: “Some imported Dubai-style chocolate products don’t meet our standards and could be a food safety risk, especially for consumers with allergies.”
By law, products made to UK standards must carry labels featuring ingredients written clearly in English, a best before or use-by date, and the name and address of a UK or European Union (EU) business responsible for the on-pack information.
While most Dubai-style chocolate available in UK shops is safe, The FSA said it had identified a number of products that posed potential health risks — some lacking clear ingredient lists and allergen information, and others containing additives and colours banned in the UK market.
Dubai-style chocolate products, popularised through social media platforms like TikTok, combine the flavours of chocolate, pistachio and tahini with filo pastry, and are inspired by the Arab dessert knafeh.
The FSA said it was working with allergy charities to raise awareness of the issue and urged shoppers to report any concerns to their local authority.
