That captivating “Dubai chocolate” bar, with its smooth and creamy pistachio filling, has taken social media by storm. But for those with food allergies, this viral sensation comes with a serious warning, recently flagged by the UK’s Food Standards Agency (FSA). Importing these trendy treats, especially from unofficial sources, could expose you to undeclared allergens and significant health risks.
The Allure and the Allergy Risk
The “Dubai chocolate” in question often features ingredients like pistachios, shredded phyllo dough (kataifi, containing gluten), and tahini (sesame). While delicious, these are all common and potent allergens. The core issue lies not just in their presence, but in the inconsistent and often inadequate allergen labeling of these products, particularly when purchased via social media, online marketplaces, or personal import.
The FSA’s Red Flag: What You Need to Know
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued warnings about the risks associated with “Dubai chocolate” imported into the UK. Their concerns highlight several critical points:
- Undeclared Allergens: A major concern is the presence of allergens that are not clearly declared on the packaging. This is especially true for products not originally intended for the tightly regulated UK or EU markets. There have been documented incidents, such as a recent recall in Germany for undeclared sesame in a “Dubai chocolate” product.
- Inconsistent Labeling Standards: Different countries have varying food safety and allergen labeling laws. While the UAE does mandate allergen highlighting (e.g., milk, nuts, sesame, gluten), the specifics can differ from EU or US standards. For instance, the exact list of allergens required to be declared can vary, and the emphasis on “may contain” cross-contamination warnings might not be as rigorous or clear as what consumers in other regions are accustomed to.
- Cross-Contamination Dangers: Even if primary ingredients are listed, many “Dubai chocolate” varieties are produced in facilities that handle a wide array of nuts, sesame, gluten, dairy, and soy. Without stringent allergen control practices and clear “may contain” statements, cross-contamination is a very real threat for severely allergic individuals. The viral nature has also led to many smaller or less regulated producers, making traceability and consistent safety protocols harder to verify.
Why Is This Happening?
The viral demand for this chocolate has led to a proliferation of producers and distributors, not all of whom adhere to international food safety and labeling best practices. When these products bypass official import channels, they often escape the scrutiny that would normally ensure allergen compliance.
Protecting Yourself and Others
If you have food allergies or are buying for someone who does, exercising extreme caution with “Dubai chocolate” is paramount:
- Avoid Unverified Sources: Do not buy from unofficial online sellers, social media accounts, or personal imports where you cannot verify the product’s origin and labeling accuracy.
- Check for Clear Labeling: Insist on products with comprehensive, clear, and accurate ingredient and allergen labeling in English (or your local language). Look for bolded allergens and clear “may contain” warnings. If in doubt, assume it’s unsafe.
- Understand Regulatory Differences: Be aware that products from different regions may not meet the allergen disclosure standards you expect.
- Prioritize Safety Over Trends: No viral trend is worth risking a severe allergic reaction. If you cannot confirm the allergen status of a product, it’s safest to avoid it entirely.
While the appeal of “Dubai chocolate” is undeniable, the risks it poses to allergic individuals due to undeclared allergens and inconsistent labeling are very real. Stay informed, stay vigilant, and always prioritize safety when indulging in international treats.
Further information: https://www.food.gov.uk/news-alerts/news/fsa-warns-people-with-allergies-over-some-imported-dubai-style-chocolate-products