Ezaki Glico Issues Massive Recall of Chocolate Items Due to Warehouse Odor Contamination
Ezaki Glico Issues Massive Recall of Chocolate Items Due to Warehouse Odor Contamination

Japanese confectionery company Ezaki Glico announced on December 8 that it will voluntarily recall around six million chocolate products, including its signature Pocky Chocolate sticks. The company says a foreign odor was detected, differing from the products’ intended flavor, but stresses that there is no safety risk if the products are consumed.

Which Products Are Affected?

The recall covers 20 chocolate items with expiration dates of May 2026 or later, including:

  • Pocky Chocolate

  • Kobe Roast Chocolat – Rich Cacao

  • LIBERA Bitter

Glico will publish the full product list on its recall website and consumer information channels.

What Caused the Issue?

The odor problem began during renovation work at a logistics warehouse where raw cacao beans were stored. Because of space constraints during the renovation, cacao beans were temporarily kept in the same area as various spices. As a result, the spice aroma was absorbed into the cacao beans, later affecting the chocolate’s flavor.

The issue came to light after consumer inquiries alerted the company to an unusual smell.

Is It Dangerous?

No.
Glico states the affected products pose no health or safety risks, and the recall is purely quality-related, not due to contamination or food safety concerns.

How Consumers Can Return Products

Consumers can return eligible items free of charge (postage-paid). Glico will compensate buyers with a QUO card equivalent to the product’s retail value.

  • Returns & inquiries: through the company’s dedicated recall website or via the customer service hotline
    0120-122-859 (Product Recall Desk)

Industry Context and Impact

Japan’s confectionery industry rarely sees large-scale recalls of this size. Glico’s action demonstrates:

  • A strong emphasis on brand trust and product integrity

  • Proactive quality control in response to consumer feedback

  • Potential short-term supply disruptions for popular products such as Pocky, one of Japan’s most globally recognized snacks

The company has not yet announced how long restocking will take, but production using uncontaminated cacao beans has already resumed.

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