A business in England has been fined for selling counterfeit Wonka chocolate bars with incorrect labeling and undeclared nut allergens. Mayank Soneji, director of SP Wholesale Limited, appeared at Luton Crown Court in September. After pleading guilty to food safety and trademark offenses, Soneji was fined £5,265 ($6,940), while the company was fined £5,824 ($7,680).
In March 2022, a Luton Council Environmental Health Officer visited the SP Wholesale distributor to inspect the premises’ hygiene standards. During the inspection, the officer observed staff removing the outer wrappers from cheap, imported chocolate bars and replacing them with Wonka Bar labels. Warehouse conditions were unhygienic, with mice and pigeons in the unit and unclean surroundings.
Paperwork found at the premises revealed that these fake Wonka Bars were being supplied to shops across the UK. It was later discovered that chocolate contained allergens such as peanuts and almonds, which were not listed on the packaging. As a result, the business had to carry out a nationwide product recall.
The label also had a fake address, and the company did not obtain permission from the trademark holder to use the Wonka Bar wrappers. Gerard McCleave, corporate director for inclusive economy, said: “It’s vitally important that food labeling includes all ingredients, as they can pose a health risk to anyone who suffers from a related food allergy. Soneji has shown a complete disregard for the safety of his custom.