6.08.2025

"Viral Chocolate Recall: Salmonella Safety Alert"

A type of chocolate that gained viral fame thanks to gushing reviews on social media is being recalled over salmonella concerns

A type of chocolate that recently became a viral sensation on social media due to enthusiastic reviews is now facing a recall due to potential salmonella contamination. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has issued a recall notice for the Dubai brand pistachio and knafeh milk chocolate, which was distributed in Quebec and sold online. This particular chocolate bar features a unique combination of pistachio cream and crunchy pieces of knafeh, a dessert that has gained popularity and critical acclaim over the years, particularly through various food blogs and social media platforms.

The CFIA announced that the potential for contamination was uncovered during a food safety investigation, although it reported that no illnesses related to this specific product have yet been documented. The agency is committed to ensuring that the industry is actively removing the recalled products from the marketplace and has strongly advised consumers to refrain from consuming these chocolate bars.

Salmonella, a bacterium responsible for food-borne illness, can lead to severe health complications and can continue to spread even after symptoms have disappeared or if the infected individual does not exhibit symptoms at all. Certain groups are more susceptible to serious health outcomes, including children, pregnant individuals, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems. While healthy individuals may experience typical short-term symptoms such as fever, headache, vomiting, nausea, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea, the risk remains significant for vulnerable populations.

The firm responsible for the distribution of the recalled chocolate is noted to be Distribution Bonbons JJ Candy. Consumers who have purchased the affected products are urged to follow the safety guidelines provided in the recall notice, which emphasizes the importance of not consuming the chocolate in question.

This situation has raised awareness regarding food safety practices, especially in products that gain popularity rapidly through social media endorsement. The CFIA’s proactive response highlights their commitment to food safety and consumer health and serves as a reminder for both consumers and food distributors to maintain rigorous safety standards.

As the investigation continues, the CFIA will provide updates regarding the withdrawal of the product from shelves and further safety measures that may be put in place. The agency’s focus remains on public health, with the goal of ensuring that such incidents are monitored and addressed swiftly to minimize potential health risks to the Canadian population.