Were Unreal brand dark chocolate coconut Minis recalled due to salmonella?

December 21, 2025 •

3 min read

Yes, in October 2022, a recall was issued in Canada for Unreal brand dark chocolate coconut minis due to possible Salmonella contamination. This precautionary action was triggered by the company and overseen by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).

Quick Summary

An October 2022 food recall involved Unreal dark chocolate coconut minis in Canada due to possible Salmonella contamination. The company initiated the precautionary measure in coordination with the CFIA.

Key Points

Recall Confirmed: Yes, Unreal brand dark chocolate coconut minis were recalled in Canada in October 2022.
Reason: The recall was issued due to possible Salmonella contamination.
Affected Product: The specific product was the 435-gram pouches, with particular best-before dates.
Location: The recall was limited to the Canadian marketplace, affecting multiple provinces.
No Illnesses Reported: At the time of the recall, no reported illnesses were linked to the product.
What to Do: If you had the affected product, you should have thrown it out or returned it to the store.

Confirmation of the Recall

In October 2022, Unreal Brands, Inc. initiated a recall for its dark chocolate coconut minis after discovering a potential risk of Salmonella contamination. The recall was implemented in Canada, affecting multiple provinces, and was overseen by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). The specific product recalled was the 435-gram pouch, sold at various retailers, including Costco. While no illnesses were reported at the time of the announcement, the recall was taken as a precautionary measure to ensure consumer safety. This event highlights the robust food safety monitoring systems in place that can identify and address potential health risks before widespread issues arise.

Details of the Unreal Chocolate Recall

The Unreal recall focused on a very specific batch of products with certain best-before dates. The 435 g pouches of 'dark chocolate coconut minis' were the only item identified for the recall. Shoppers were advised to check their pantries and dispose of or return any affected products to the point of purchase. This was a Class 2 recall, which indicates a situation where there is a potential for temporary or medically reversible adverse health consequences. It's a significant but not the highest level of risk.

The Importance of Monitoring Best Before Dates

When recalls like this occur, it is critical for consumers to check not just the product brand and type but also specific lot codes and 'best before' dates. In the 2022 Unreal recall, multiple dates were specified, ensuring only the compromised batches were removed from the market.

Affected Product Details:

Brand: UNREAL
Product: Dark Chocolate Coconut Minis
Size: 435 g pouches
Codes: Specific best-before dates were listed, including various dates in August, September, and October 2023.

What is Salmonella? The Health Risks Explained

Salmonella is a bacterium that can cause severe foodborne illness, known as salmonellosis. Symptoms typically include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea. While many healthy individuals recover within a few days, the infection can be more serious for certain groups.

At-Risk Populations for Severe Infection:

Infants and young children
Pregnant women
The elderly
Individuals with weakened immune systems

Long-term complications, though rare, can include severe arthritis. Public health agencies like the CFIA and Health Canada provide essential information during these events to protect the most vulnerable consumers.

The Role of Food Safety Agencies

The process of issuing and managing food recalls involves a collaborative effort between the company and government agencies. In Canada, the CFIA played a pivotal role in verifying that the industry was effectively removing the recalled product from store shelves. This oversight is crucial for protecting the public from contaminated food items and maintaining trust in the food supply chain. Without these agencies, it would be much harder for consumers to be aware of and respond to such safety threats.

Table of Recalls Related to Confectionery and Bacteria/Heavy Metals


Product	Issue	Regulatory Body	Date	Location	Illnesses Reported
Unreal Dark Chocolate Coconut Minis	Salmonella Contamination	CFIA	Oct 2022	Canada	No
Various Dark Chocolate Bars	Lead and Cadmium Contamination	Consumer Reports	2022-2023	U.S.	N/A
Dubai brand Pistachio Chocolate	Salmonella Contamination	CFIA	Aug 2025	Canada	Yes
The Bare Pantry Dark Chocolate	Undeclared Milk	Food Standards Agency	Sep 2025	U.K.	N/A

Conclusion: Staying Informed is Key

The recall of Unreal brand dark chocolate coconut minis in 2022 serves as an important reminder of the constant need for vigilance in food safety. While the specific product is no longer a risk, the event emphasizes the importance of paying attention to recall notices from government agencies. Consumers should always check product details, including best-before dates and lot codes, especially for sensitive items like chocolate. For ongoing updates on food safety alerts and recalls in Canada, reliable sources like the CFIA website should be consulted. Staying informed ensures that you can make the safest decisions for you and your family.

Visit the CFIA website for the original food recall warning

Frequently Asked Questions

The recall for Unreal dark chocolate coconut minis was initiated in October 2022.

The specific product recalled was the 435-gram pouches of UNREAL brand dark chocolate coconut minis.

The recall was conducted in Canada, affecting multiple provinces including British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario.

No, based on the provided recall notices, the recall was specific to the Canadian marketplace.

Salmonella infection symptoms include fever, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, and diarrhea.

No, according to the recall notices from October 2022, there were no reported illnesses associated with the consumption of this product at the time.

Recalled products should have been thrown out or returned to the store where they were purchased for a refund.

The recall was triggered and initiated by the company, Unreal Brands, Inc., in cooperation with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).

Assuming you don't have a product from the specific recalled batch, current Unreal products should be safe. Always check for the latest recall information from official sources if concerned.