A decade-old photo resurfacing online has unexpectedly thrust Cadbury into controversy, with UK consumers questioning whether their Easter treats meet halal standards. The viral image, reportedly from 2014, showed a Cadbury employee holding a halal certification, sparking heated debates across social media platforms. While some critics accused the chocolate giant of religious pandering, others called for boycotts, prompting the company to clarify its position.
The company swiftly addressed the misinformation, emphasizing that none of its UK products carry halal certification. Cadbury explained that while their chocolates don’t contain non-halal ingredients like pork, they haven’t undergone formal halal certification processes. A Mondelez International spokesperson further clarified that their UK products simply meet general dietary standards suitable for various consumers, including vegetarians and those following halal diets by default.
Investigations revealed the controversial image actually originated from Cadbury’s operations in the Asia-Pacific region, where halal certification holds greater market significance. This distinction highlights how multinational companies often adapt their products to meet regional dietary preferences and regulations. The 2014 Malaysian incident referenced in the photo involved Cadbury products being tested for pork DNA at the request of Islamic authorities, ultimately receiving clearance.
The situation underscores the challenges global brands face in navigating diverse cultural and religious expectations across different markets. While Cadbury maintains its UK products haven’t changed to accommodate specific religious requirements, the company acknowledges varying certification practices worldwide. This incident serves as a reminder of how easily outdated information can resurface and create modern controversies in our hyper-connected digital age.