EU bans Algerian spread toasted on social media

The EU has banned imports of an Algerian hazelnut spread, El Mordjene Cebon, that gained popularity in France through social media influencers, according to AFP. Described by fans as having an "incredible texture" and "good enough to dies for," jars were selling for over 10 euros in French shops. 

However, the EU blocked the spread, stating Algeria does not meet the requirements to export dairy products for human consumption. French authorities have launched an investigation into how it continues to be sold. 

Influencer Benoit Chevalier, with 12 million followers, expressed hope that the spread would return to shelves in Europe. Carrefour, a French supermarket chain, is the only retailer that has shown interest in stocking the product if it meets EU regulations. 

The spread is a source of national pride in Algeria, while the company that makes it, Cebon, denies any involvement generating the social media buzz.