Young girl ‘traumatised’ after horror find inside chocolate treat
- Replies 9
This story highlights the importance of being mindful of the food we consume.
Recently, a distressing incident occurred where a young child was left 'traumatised' after discovering live and wriggling creatures inside a chocolate egg snack that her father had purchased at a discount store.
The chocolate was acquired from Choice The Discount Store in Coomera, situated within a shopping centre on Queensland's Gold Coast, for $2.50.
Later that afternoon, the father gave it to his seven-year-old daughter.
While enjoying the chocolate at home, she suddenly screamed and cried. Alarmed, the father asked what happened, and the child said she saw what appeared to be a 'caterpillar' inside the chocolate.
The father decided to inspect the chocolate treat himself, and true enough, he found a couple of critters wriggling and emerging from the snack. While their identity remained a mystery, some online sources suggested they might be some type of 'larvae'.
Naturally, the shopper was outraged and promptly returned to the store, where he received a full refund for his purchase.
Later, it was revealed that the chocolate snack had an expiry date of May 2024.
After learning about the incident, Choice The Discount Store promptly removed the item in question and all products sourced from the same supplier from their store shelves.
Matthew Traynor, the Brand Manager for the retailer, mentioned that they are currently in contact with the supplier to uncover how these creatures found their way into the chocolate egg.
However, he declined to disclose the supplier's or manufacturer's identity behind the product.
After the father posted his complaint online, many fellow shoppers were appalled by the disturbing discovery. In response, a staff member stepped in to address the concerns in the comments.
'We sincerely apologise for this, and we have taken all appropriate action at store level,' they said in regret and reassurance.
At the time of writing, it remains uncertain whether an official recall has been issued for the chocolate product.
How to properly inspect food packaging for signs of tampering or contamination
In light of such incidents, it’s essential to educate ourselves on the importance of properly inspecting food packaging. Recognising the signs of tampering or contamination isn’t rocket science, but it certainly can go a long way in ensuring our overall well-being.
When you're shopping, the first thing you need to do is check for the seal.
A broken or damaged seal is often a tell-tale sign of possible tampering or contamination. Some seals may be missing or could also appear to be reapplied, which is a clear warning sign.
A good practice is to compare the item you intend to purchase with another of the same product on the shelf. Any discrepancies could mean a world of difference.
Keep in mind that it's not just about the seal but also the overall condition of the packaging itself. Any signs of swelling, discolouration, or punctures can be indicators of contamination. Sometimes, it's not just what's on the inside that matters, folks!
If you come across a package or can that looks dusty, faded, or seems to be sitting alone on the store shelf when other similar products are grouped together, it's probably best to pass on that option.
Like the saying 'Don't judge a book by its cover', we recommend not basing your decision on food solely by its packaging—well, at least not entirely! It's also crucial to check the expiration date, manufacturing date, and batch code. Even if a product falls within its specified date range, opting for the freshest product whenever possible is still a safer bet.
Remember, the risk isn't always immediate when it comes to contamination or tampering. Some contaminants may not pose a risk until you actually consume the product. So, taking the time to inspect your food packaging before making a purchase is time well spent.
There's no denying that this incident has made us all more cautious regarding the potential risks associated with the food we buy. Members, we strongly advise checking the packaging of any item you pick up at the store, and if anything seems off or unusual, think twice before making the purchase.
Have any of you ever had a similar experience? If so, how did you handle it? Share your stories with us in the comments below.
Recently, a distressing incident occurred where a young child was left 'traumatised' after discovering live and wriggling creatures inside a chocolate egg snack that her father had purchased at a discount store.
The chocolate was acquired from Choice The Discount Store in Coomera, situated within a shopping centre on Queensland's Gold Coast, for $2.50.
Later that afternoon, the father gave it to his seven-year-old daughter.
While enjoying the chocolate at home, she suddenly screamed and cried. Alarmed, the father asked what happened, and the child said she saw what appeared to be a 'caterpillar' inside the chocolate.
A young child has been left 'traumatised' after finding wriggling creatures inside a chocolate egg snack. Credit: Facebook.
The father decided to inspect the chocolate treat himself, and true enough, he found a couple of critters wriggling and emerging from the snack. While their identity remained a mystery, some online sources suggested they might be some type of 'larvae'.
Naturally, the shopper was outraged and promptly returned to the store, where he received a full refund for his purchase.
Later, it was revealed that the chocolate snack had an expiry date of May 2024.
After learning about the incident, Choice The Discount Store promptly removed the item in question and all products sourced from the same supplier from their store shelves.
Matthew Traynor, the Brand Manager for the retailer, mentioned that they are currently in contact with the supplier to uncover how these creatures found their way into the chocolate egg.
However, he declined to disclose the supplier's or manufacturer's identity behind the product.
After the father posted his complaint online, many fellow shoppers were appalled by the disturbing discovery. In response, a staff member stepped in to address the concerns in the comments.
'We sincerely apologise for this, and we have taken all appropriate action at store level,' they said in regret and reassurance.
At the time of writing, it remains uncertain whether an official recall has been issued for the chocolate product.
How to properly inspect food packaging for signs of tampering or contamination
In light of such incidents, it’s essential to educate ourselves on the importance of properly inspecting food packaging. Recognising the signs of tampering or contamination isn’t rocket science, but it certainly can go a long way in ensuring our overall well-being.
When you're shopping, the first thing you need to do is check for the seal.
A broken or damaged seal is often a tell-tale sign of possible tampering or contamination. Some seals may be missing or could also appear to be reapplied, which is a clear warning sign.
A good practice is to compare the item you intend to purchase with another of the same product on the shelf. Any discrepancies could mean a world of difference.
Keep in mind that it's not just about the seal but also the overall condition of the packaging itself. Any signs of swelling, discolouration, or punctures can be indicators of contamination. Sometimes, it's not just what's on the inside that matters, folks!
If you come across a package or can that looks dusty, faded, or seems to be sitting alone on the store shelf when other similar products are grouped together, it's probably best to pass on that option.
Like the saying 'Don't judge a book by its cover', we recommend not basing your decision on food solely by its packaging—well, at least not entirely! It's also crucial to check the expiration date, manufacturing date, and batch code. Even if a product falls within its specified date range, opting for the freshest product whenever possible is still a safer bet.
Remember, the risk isn't always immediate when it comes to contamination or tampering. Some contaminants may not pose a risk until you actually consume the product. So, taking the time to inspect your food packaging before making a purchase is time well spent.
When you're shopping, it’s important to thoroughly inspect food packaging. Credit: Shutterstock.
There's no denying that this incident has made us all more cautious regarding the potential risks associated with the food we buy. Members, we strongly advise checking the packaging of any item you pick up at the store, and if anything seems off or unusual, think twice before making the purchase.
Have any of you ever had a similar experience? If so, how did you handle it? Share your stories with us in the comments below.
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maybe enough to give up chocolate for a few months. That would make my doctor happy as I’d maybe shed a few kilos. Though don’t think I’ll start going to discount shops for chocolates I have a real weakness for Lindt.
