Any chocolate-lover will be familiar with the iconic Wonka Bars sold in the classic Roald Dahl story Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. These recognisable bars have appeared in two film versions of the classic story, and have gone on to be created in real life by Nestle to be sold in shops around the globe.
However, according to reporting by The Mirror , some knock-off chocolate bars could contain more than a golden ticket – consumers are being warned not to buy risky fake Wonka Bar chocolates which are being sold in shops and online across the UK.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) food regulator said that many counterfeit bars are unsafe to eat, as they are being made by shadowy businesses that do not obey food hygiene laws. In the terrifying revelation, some of the fake bars spotted by the FSA even contained ingredients that could cause an allergic reaction which were not listed on their packaging.
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(Image: (photo by Mike Kemp/In Pictures via Getty Images))
Counterfeiters are reportedly exploiting Brits’ familiarity with the brand – The Mirror reported that some of the counterfeit Wonka Bars are being made by people re-wrapping other chocolate in new packaging, then selling it as a legitimate Wonka Bar. Other dodgy Wonka Bars may be being made from scratch then sold as the real deal. These are being sold online, as well as in physical retailers like dedicated candy shops.
FSA head of incidents Tina Potter said: “With Easter less than a month away, it is more important than ever that parents and grandparents are aware of the risks that these bogus chocolate bars could pose to their children, particularly those living with a food allergy or intolerance.
“There is no way of knowing what ingredients are in these bars or what food hygiene practices are being followed by the people making or repackaging them. If you have bought these knock-off bars, do not eat them or give them to friends and family.”
The FSA added: “Any Wonka-branded chocolate which does not feature the official ‘Ferrero’ or ‘Ferrara Candy Company’ trademarks on the label is likely to be a counterfeit product and there is no way to know if it is safe to eat. and there is no way to know if it is safe to eat.”
The food regulator is still investigating, and is urging the public to help by reporting suspicious bars to shops and to their local councils. Local authorities have also been asked by the FSA to investigate and remove any fake Wonka Bars they find.
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