Food warning issued on cocoa based sweetener

The Food Safety and Security Authority has published a warning on a batch of Valor brand Cocoa Based Powder with sweeteners since it may contain the additive maltitol.

While it is not inherently toxic, the additive is not permitted in products containing less than 25% cocoa. It becomes a health hazard because it is poorly digested, causing severe gastrointestinal distress. Maltitol can also trigger blood sugar and insulin spikes.

The authority advised consumers not to consume the product and either dispose of it or return it to the store from which it was purchased.

Product details:

• Product Description: Cocoa Based Powder with sweeteners

• Brand: Valor

• Lot Number / Best Before: 

             V25128M1 / 11-2026

V25070T1 / 09-2026

V25259T1 / 03-2027

O2603611 / 08-2027

O2605621 / 08-2027

• Weight: 200g