UAE markets are free from salmonella contaminated chocolate products, and not affected by the latest recall by chocolate maker Mars of certain batches of Galaxy, Maltesers Teasers and bags of Minstrels, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, MOCCAE, today said in a statement.

Majd Mohamed Al Herbawi, Director of Food Safety Department at MOCCAE, said, "In regards to what has been circulated about Mars recalling some bars of Galaxy, Maltesers Teasers and bags of Minstrels from sale in the United Kingdom and Ireland, due to the potential presence of salmonella, the ministry has contacted Mars UAE and reassures consumers that these products are not imported from either the UK or Ireland, and that UAE markets are free from salmonella contaminated chocolate products."

The ministry in its statement added that "All food products in the UAE, whether locally produced or imported, are safe for consumption as they are strictly monitored by the ministry and relevant local authorities."

"MOCCAE reaffirms that there is constant coordination with relevant authorities in the UAE to ensure the safety of all imported and traded food products. The ministry reiterates that all imported and traded products undergo a strict control system in accordance with the best international practices at all stages of the food chain, including conducting laboratory tests as per the risk assessment system, and an early notification system of foods that pose a risk to consumers’ health," it said.