In a significant move to ensure consumer safety, Tony's Chocolonely has issued an urgent recall for specific batches of two chocolate products in the UK and Ireland due to a potential risk of small stones being present. The recall was announced on April 1, 2025, and affects the Dark Almond Sea Salt 180g and Everything Bar 180g. The company has urged consumers to return these products for a refund or replacement.
The affected products include the Dark Almond Sea Salt 180g with lot codes 162633, 162614, and 163061, all of which have best before dates in 2026. The Everything Bar 180g is also impacted, specifically those with lot codes 4331, 4332, and 4333, which have best before dates from late November 2025. The company emphasized that while the probability of any individual product being affected is low, the precautionary measure is in place to prioritize consumer safety.
A spokesperson for Tony's Chocolonely expressed regret over the inconvenience caused by the recall, stating, "We are extremely sorry to have to issue this recall and for the inconvenience that this will cause people who purchased these products. Whilst the probability of a product being affected is low, we always put the safety and satisfaction of our consumers first and that is why we have made the decision to recall these products. We apologise to consumers and our partners for the impact this will have." This statement underscores the company's commitment to consumer safety and satisfaction.
Consumers who have purchased the affected products are advised not to eat them. Instead, they should return the items to the store where they were purchased for a full refund or replacement. Additionally, Tony's Chocolonely has provided a dedicated webpage where customers can check how to identify the lot codes and claim their refunds or replacements. The webpage can be accessed at https://uk.tonyschocolonely.com/pages/recall-fo-intl-0325.
In a statement regarding the recall, the company reassured customers that all other Tony's Chocolonely products remain safe to consume and are not impacted by this recall. They are working closely with retailers and food authorities to ensure that the affected products are removed from sale and distribution swiftly.
Product recalls are not uncommon in the food industry, particularly when there is a potential risk of contamination. The Food Standards Agency (FSA) plays a crucial role in issuing Product Withdrawal Information Notices and Product Recall Information Notices to inform consumers and local authorities about food safety issues. In this case, Tony's Chocolonely has taken proactive steps to maintain transparency and consumer trust.
For many chocolate lovers, the news of a recall can be concerning, especially when it involves popular brands like Tony's Chocolonely, which is known for its commitment to ethical sourcing and high-quality ingredients. The company's decision to recall these products, although precautionary, reflects a broader trend in the food industry where safety is prioritized over profits.
As consumers navigate this recall, it is essential to remain informed about the products they purchase. Checking lot codes and best before dates can help ensure that they are not consuming potentially hazardous items. The recall serves as a reminder of the importance of food safety and the responsibilities manufacturers have to their customers.
In summary, Tony's Chocolonely is urging consumers in the UK and Ireland to return specific batches of its Dark Almond Sea Salt and Everything Bar products due to the potential presence of small stones. The company has taken this step as a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of its customers, emphasizing that the likelihood of contamination is low but prioritizing consumer well-being above all. Customers are encouraged to check the lot codes of their products and return any affected items for a refund or replacement.