A well-known chocolate bar brand has issued a recall after a customer discovered that one of its popular products contained hazelnuts, an allergen that was not listed on the label. This recall is affecting Milka’s Bubbly Alpine Milk “Chocolat” bars, which were sold in multiple Canadian provinces.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) confirmed that Milka’s chocolate bars, packaged in 90-gram sizes, are being recalled because of the unlisted hazelnut ingredient. Hazelnuts are considered a known allergen, and it is crucial for food labels to clearly list all potential allergens. While the packaging did not specifically list hazelnuts as an ingredient, it did mention that the product "May contain: peanuts, other tree nuts." This inconsistency led to the recall, as it failed to mention hazelnuts, which were found in the product.
The recalled chocolate bars were sold across various provinces, including Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec, Ontario, Alberta, and British Columbia. The issue came to light after a customer reported an allergic reaction following the consumption of the chocolate. The CFIA launched the recall after receiving the complaint and has started removing the affected chocolate bars from store shelves.
The company has advised anyone who purchased these specific chocolate bars to either dispose of them or return them to the store for a refund. The CFIA has worked quickly to address the issue and prevent further allergic reactions, but as of January 16, there has been one confirmed allergic reaction reported.
Consumers with a nut allergy, particularly to hazelnuts, are urged to be cautious if they have already bought these products. The CFIA has recommended that stores check their stock and ensure that any affected products are removed from their shelves immediately.
This incident highlights the importance of accurate food labelling, especially when it comes to allergens. Hazelnuts are a common food allergen, and missing this key information could pose a serious risk to consumers with allergies. The CFIA has emphasized that food manufacturers must provide clear and accurate labelling to avoid allergic reactions, which can be severe or even life-threatening in some cases.
For those who have consumed the affected Milka chocolate bars and are concerned about potential reactions, it is advised to seek medical attention if any symptoms arise, particularly for individuals who are known to be allergic to tree nuts.