Mansfield: Alert after market chocolate makes people ill

People have been warned not to consume chocolate purchased from a stall at a market in Nottinghamshire.

Nottinghamshire Police said it had received reports of people falling ill after consuming chocolate with gold packaging bought at Mansfield Market on Saturday.

The force has asked anyone who bought the product to get in touch.

It added anyone who felt unwell as a result of having the chocolate should seek medical attention.

Police said officers were working with other organisations to investigate.

Det Insp Luke Todd said: "We are aware of reports circulating online of people unknowingly purchasing chocolate laced with drugs from the Mansfield area over the weekend.

"At this stage, there is no evidence to support these rumours.

"An investigation is currently ongoing to establish the circumstances behind people feeling unwell after consuming this chocolate.

"This incident has been referred to the Food Standards Agency, who will provide a further update in due course."

Tina Potter, head of incidents at the Food Standards Agency, said: "We are working with local authorities, UKHSA [UK Health Security Agency] and the police investigating an incident following reports of illness after eating chocolate in Nottinghamshire."

David Evans, head of health and communities at Mansfield District Council, added: "The council is working with Trading Standards, Nottinghamshire Police, and the UKHSA to support a joint investigation into a food quality issue reported on Saturday from Mansfield Market.

"We will support the investigation to get a successful conclusion and share any agreed messaging to protect the public."

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