A prestigious chocolate company that had royal orders from the late Queen and the Queen Mother has had to withdraw products from its shelves due to a major health concern related to peanuts.
Prestat, based in Piccadilly in London’s West End, was founded in 1902 by legendary master chocolatier Antoine Dufour, the inventor of the chocolate truffle.
Prestat, one of Britain’s oldest and most exclusive chocolate brands, is a long-standing supplier to the Royal Family.
In addition to the two queens, her fans include Princess Diana, Sarah Bernhardt, Sir John Gielgud, Dame Peggy Ashcroft, Stephen Fry, Adrian Lester and Lord Mandelson.
Prestat chocolates have been a favourite of the royal household since the early 20th century, but four “collections” of truffles and other sweets are being recalled due to contamination concerns.
Peanuts are among the most common causes of life-threatening anaphylaxis.
The Food Standards Agency, a watchdog, said the company had recalled four of its products – including boxes of chocolate and truffles – over fears they may have been contaminated with peanuts when this was not indicated on the packaging.
People who are allergic to peanuts may experience a life-threatening reaction.
Prestat chocolates are sold in Selfridges and other high-end stores, with some boxed ‘collections’ priced at nearly £50.
The recalled boxes include lots of The Jewel Box, The London Collection, The London Collection Earl Grey Thins and The Festive House Earl Grey Truffles.
According to the FSA, several batches of The Jewel Box are affected.
The FSA said: “Prestat is recalling chocolate products because they may contain peanuts which are not mentioned on the label, making them a potential health risk for anyone with a peanut allergy.”
People with peanut allergies are urged not to eat the products and return them to the store where they were purchased for a full refund.