Egyptian authorities have shut down an unlicensed biscuit factory north of Cairo after discovering that it was producing biscuits labelled “Oreo” without any connection to Mondelēz International, the owner of the popular brand.
During an inspection, authorities reportedly seized about 1.8 tonnes of raw materials and finished products, including expired glucose and butter, as well as ingredients with no traceable source.
Inspectors also found that the factory was using vegetable carbon (E153) to give the biscuits their dark colour instead of cocoa.
The authorities confiscated the products and initiated legal proceedings against those allegedly responsible for the unauthorised production and distribution.
The incident has raised concerns over food safety, counterfeit products and the risks consumers may face when purchasing goods from unlicensed producers.
Would you have noticed if your “Oreo” was made with vegetable carbon instead of cocoa?
