The FSA have asked that we circulate the following information to our members on an issue of emerging concern: ‘Dubai-style’ chocolate.

Please note, to assist in the amplification of this message, you are permitted to onward share. However, where FSA material is used, it must be accurately quoted, without alteration, and referenced to ensure the FSA position is reflected

‘Dubai-Style’ Chocolate

Audience: Businesses who import and/or wholesale / sell at retail, products known as ‘Dubai chocolate’ or ‘Dubai-style’ chocolate.

We want to make you aware of concerns the Food Standards Agency (FSA) have about the recent increase in some food products known as ‘Dubai Chocolate’ or ’Dubai-style’ in shops. While there are safe and legitimate products on the UK market, there is growing evidence of both unsafe and non-compliant products being sold.

These products are often imported from countries outside the United Kingdom (UK), including Türkiye and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and are sold across a range of UK retail settings – from online and national retailers to small convenience stores.

The supply is meeting demand linked to social media promotions and while it is great to see the food industry meeting consumer choice, we also want to protect consumers by making sure food is legal for UK markets and safe for consumers.

As part of this we want to remind you of your responsibilities as retailers, suppliers, wholesalers, and/or importers under UK food law.

Based on initial incident notifications and information being gathered, many of these imported products are not formulated for the UK market, some brands pose allergen risks, they may contain unauthorised additives, be in contravention of import requirements or may not comply with UK food information requirements more generally, meaning consumers could be at risk from:

· Missing, incorrect or misleading labelling

· Undeclared allergens or un-emphasised allergen information on labels

· Authenticity of ingredients

· Unauthorised food additives

To help your understanding, Annex 1 provides examples of unauthorised additives and potential areas of non-compliance linked to these products. These have been identified from various sources and have been the subject of media reports, with incidents reported to the FSA and local authorities. The FSA provides a list of the authorised and approved additives and E numbers. If an additive is not on this list, then it is not permitted in the food in the UK. Please note there may also be restrictions on the use and quantities of some approved additives and E numbers for certain foods.

Non-compliant products must not be placed on the UK market, and it is extremely important to understand that failure to comply with legal requirements is an offence and may lead to enforcement action, including destruction of non-compliant imported goods. Supplying non-compliant food products, while ultimately risking consumer health, can also lead to financial, legal and reputational risks for businesses. They may be required to withdraw and recall products from the market, risk breaching business contracts and in instances where an allergen incident or allergen fatality occurs, risk being the subject of a criminal investigation; Annex 2 outlines relevant legislation.

If you have any queries about compliant food products, please contact Trading Standards or the Food Safety team at your local authority or district council (Northern Ireland).

Best wishes

Food Standards Agency

Prevention Team, Incidents and Resilience Unit