UK Treats Go 'Chocolate-Flavored' Due to Cost

Beloved British chocolate biscuits are undergoing a significant reformulation, with some no longer legally qualifying as chocolate. Professor Tim Spector highlighted that treats like Cadbury's Dairy Milk, Club, and Penguin biscuits have seen such a reduction in cocoa content that they must now be marketed as 'chocolate-flavored'. This shift is attributed to rapidly increasing ingredient costs, particularly for cocoa.

As cocoa percentages fall below 20% in some products, manufacturers are substituting it with less healthy, cheaper fats. Professor Spector explained that this means consumers are missing out on the natural benefits of real chocolate, such as fiber, flavanols, and essential nutrients like magnesium. These beneficial compounds are being replaced by ingredients that offer no health advantages and can be detrimental.

The expert urges consumers to be more discerning when purchasing chocolate products. He recommends opting for items where the primary ingredient is cacao, ideally with a percentage of 70% or higher. This ensures consumers are enjoying the genuine health benefits associated with real chocolate rather than less wholesome alternatives disguised as such.