Have you ever wondered who makes Kinder eggs? These chocolate treats are popular all over the world, but many people don't know much about the company that creates them. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the history of Kinder eggs and the company responsible for bringing them to market.
The History of Kinder Eggs
Kinder eggs were first created in 1972 by the Italian company Ferrero. At the time, the company was already well-known for its other chocolate treats, including Ferrero Rocher and Nutella. However, Kinder eggs quickly became one of their most popular products.
The original Kinder egg was made up of a milk chocolate shell, inside of which was a small plastic capsule containing a toy. The idea was to combine the joy of eating chocolate with the excitement of discovering a surprise inside. This formula proved to be a hit with children and adults alike.
The Ferrero Company
Ferrero is a family-owned company that was founded in Italy in 1946. The company's first product was a hazelnut and cocoa spread that eventually became Nutella. Since then, Ferrero has expanded to produce a wide range of chocolate treats, including Kinder eggs, Ferrero Rocher, and Tic Tacs.
Today, Ferrero is one of the largest confectionery companies in the world, with over 40,000 employees and sales in more than 170 countries. Despite its global success, the company remains committed to its roots as a family business, with members of the Ferrero family still involved in the day-to-day operations of the company.
The Making of Kinder Eggs
The process of making Kinder eggs begins with the chocolate shell. This is made from a blend of milk chocolate, cocoa butter, and sugar, which is melted together and poured into egg-shaped molds. Once the chocolate has hardened, the molds are opened and the shells are removed.
Next, the plastic capsules that contain the toys are inserted into the chocolate shells. The toys themselves are made by a number of different companies, and Ferrero works with these suppliers to ensure that the toys meet its safety standards. Once the toys are in place, the two halves of the egg are sealed together.
The Popularity of Kinder Eggs
Kinder eggs have become incredibly popular all over the world, with millions of eggs sold every year. They are particularly popular in Europe and North America, where they are seen as a nostalgic treat that many people remember from their childhoods.
However, Kinder eggs have also faced controversy in some countries, including the United States. In 1938, a law was passed in the US that banned the sale of candies with non-food items embedded inside them, due to concerns about choking hazards. This law has prevented Kinder eggs from being sold in the US, although there are some American retailers that import them illegally.
The Future of Kinder Eggs
Ferrero continues to innovate and expand its range of products, including Kinder eggs. In recent years, the company has introduced new variations on the classic Kinder egg, including Kinder Joy, which contains a toy and a separate creamy filling, and Kinder Maxi, which is a larger version of the classic egg.
Despite the challenges of the global confectionery market, Ferrero remains committed to producing high-quality and innovative products that bring joy to consumers around the world. Whether you're a fan of the classic Kinder egg or one of the company's newer creations, there's no denying that Ferrero has a special place in the hearts of chocolate lovers everywhere.