The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has released a cautionary advisory urging individuals with food allergies to refrain from consuming Dubai-style chocolate. This warning arises from concerns that certain varieties of this chocolate may not adhere to UK food safety and labeling regulations.

In a statement issued on December 16, 2025, the FSA noted that it has discovered that some Dubai-style chocolate sold in the UK could include allergens like peanuts and sesame that are not indicated on the packaging. This situation presents a significant risk for individuals with allergies and those who are hypersensitive to specific foods. The agency previously raised similar concerns earlier in the year and has since communicated its findings to industry players to prompt necessary corrective measures ensuring the safety and proper labeling of these products.

The FSA is in the process of evaluating sampling data from various chocolate selections available for purchase to determine their compliance with UK standards. Until this thorough investigation is concluded and the results are made public, the FSA advises consumers, particularly those with food allergies, to avoid Dubai-style chocolate as a precautionary measure.

Rebecca Sudworth, the FSA’s Director of Policy, emphasized the popularity of Dubai-style chocolate while highlighting the underlying health risks associated with undeclared allergens. With the holiday season approaching, she warned that the potential existence of non-compliant products increases, adding to the urgency of the advisory. Sudworth reiterated that individuals with allergies should steer clear of these chocolates and suggested that individuals purchasing gifts for those with allergies also avoid these items. She clarified that this recommendation isn’t limited to peanuts and sesame alone but encompasses all types of allergens.

The Chartered Trading Standards Institute (CTSI) expressed full support for the FSA’s advisory. Jessica Merryfield, a Chartered Trading Standards Practitioner, stated that the legal responsibilities for food allergens are clear: it is essential for these allergens to be explicitly identified and labeled to empower consumers to make safe choices. The lack of compliance poses legal and safety concerns. Merryfield also noted that Trading Standards professionals across the country are actively collaborating with the FSA and relevant businesses to ensure adherence to safety regulations.

The FSA intends to continue monitoring this issue and will provide additional updates through its food alert system to keep the public informed about the situation as it evolves.