The Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), in partnership with local food safety regulators, has confirmed to the public that the Dubai chocolate product sold within the UAE is safe for consumption. In addition, both authorities have assured that chocolates in the UAE are free from Salmonella contamination.
This statement comes as a reply to a recall in the United States involving a product falsely associated with the Dubai Chocolate, especially ‘Spread Pistachio Cacao Cream With Kadayef’ under the Emek brand.
According to MOCCAE, the recalled item was not constructed in the UAE. In addition, the authority has shared that these chocolates are not available in the local market of the UAE.
Dubai Chocolate: A Global Trend with Local Roots
The original Dubai Chocolate went viral on Tiktok in the year of 2024. Notably, it is a pistachio and kadayif-filled chocolate bar that FIX Dessert Chocolatier develops. Sara Hammouda is the founder of this brand in partnership with renowned Filipino pastry chef Noel Katis to create the now-iconic dessert.
The chocolate bar quickly became a global sensation due to its innovative Eastern flavor and elegant presentation. Therefore, many imitations and copycat versions are now available in the market. Notably, some of these are under the radar now.
The monitoring systems of the MOCCAE are strong and active. It is working closely with the local and international partners to ensure all food products sold in the UAE meet the highest safety standards.
What Experts Are Saying
The recall was initiated by the World Market, and the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was triggered after routine testing found a trace of Salmonella. It is a bacterium that can cause severe illness, especially in children and the elderly. Moreover, the FDA classified the recall as Class I, which is the most serious category that indicates a high health risk.
According to the MOCCAE, the product in question is not affiliated with the original Dubai chocolate made famous by FIX dessert chocolatier, which is a luxury dessert brand based in Dubai. The ministry claimed that the Emek product copies the original taste of the viral Dubai Chocolate. However, it has no production or distribution link to the UAE.
What is the Recalled Product?
- Product Name: Emek Spread Pistachio Cacao Cream With Kadayef
- Distributed: Between June 11 and July 9, 2025
- Contamination Risk: Positive for Salmonella
- Symptoms of Infection: Fever, nausea, vomiting, bloody diarrhea. However, there could be severe complications like endocarditis or arterial infections.
According to the FDA, no illness has been reported as of now despite the recall.
UK Also Raises Concerns Over Dubai-Style Chocolates
Recently, the Food Standards Agency (FSA) in the UK flagged a certain style of Dubai Chocolate being sold in the British market for possibly having banned additives or colorants. However, these chocolates are not linked to the FIX brand or any UAE-manufactured products. Therefore, it is important to verify the origin of the product before consuming.
MOCCAE’s Continued Commitment to Food Safety
The ministry ensured that all food products available in the market of the UAE, including popular imported and local sweets, are deeply tested and regulated. However, it is important for customers to follow the following tips to stay safe from any health risks:
- As we mentioned before, you are required to check product labels for the manufacturer and country of origin.
- It would be best to buy only from trusted retailers and avoid unverified online sellers.
- In case of any problem, you should report any suspected product issues to local authorities via official food safety hotlines.
Dubai Chocolate is the safe.
Despite the global concerns, Dubai chocolates that are being sold in the UAE are safe, high-quality, and strictly regulated. In addition, the shift response from the MOCCAE highlighted the strong food standards and commitment to public safety in the UAE. However, you should only purchase the chocolates from the authorized sellers for your safety.
Read more:
What is Dubai Chocolate and how to make it?
Viral “Dubai” Chocolate Bar Recalled in UK Over Undeclared Allergy Risk
