In a surprising turn of events, a woman was detained by airport security at Hamburg Airport for attempting to carry 90kg of viral Dubai chocolate in her suitcases. The woman, who was not arrested but is under investigation, had 460 chocolate bars spread out across three suitcases, with a total value of approximately €2,100 (£1,759). Customs officials suspected that she intended to sell the chocolate commercially, as she failed to declare it upon arrival.
The internet-famous chocolate, a combination of pistachio cream and knafeh encased in milk chocolate, gained popularity after a TikTok video of it went viral in 2023. The bars confiscated from the woman did not display any ingredient or allergen information, posing a potential health risk to consumers. The woman claimed to have paid around €4.60 (£3.85) for each 200g bar, and now faces possible charges of tax evasion for evading import duties of over €330 (£276).
Originally created by British-Egyptian entrepreneur Sarah Hamouda in 2021, the Dubai chocolate was inspired by her pregnancy cravings for a unique chocolate experience. Sold exclusively in Dubai under her brand Fix Dessert Chocolatier, the authentic bar named “Can’t Get Knafeh of It” has sparked global interest, leading to copycat versions. Demand for the chocolate has surged, with Fix receiving around 100 orders per minute in Dubai alone, thanks to the influence of social media.
Speaking to CNN in 2024, Sarah Hamouda expressed the brand’s commitment to creating a special experience with their chocolate bars. The situation at Hamburg Airport underscores the importance of customs officials in protecting consumers and enforcing tax regulations. The woman’s case serves as a reminder of the consequences of attempting to evade import duties and the need for transparency in food packaging for public safety.
In conclusion, the incident involving the woman and the viral Dubai chocolate highlights the evolving landscape of food trends, the power of social media influence, and the critical role of customs officials in upholding regulations and protecting consumers. It also showcases the challenges of navigating international trade and the importance of food safety standards in the global marketplace. Such incidents serve as cautionary tales for travellers and businesses alike, underscoring the significance of compliance with customs regulations and transparent food labelling practices to ensure the well-being of consumers.