A Sweet and Surprising Treat: The Fascinating History of Eggs with Hidden Toys
If you grew up in the 90s or early 2000s, you probably have fond memories of unwrapping a chocolate egg with a surprise inside. Maybe it was a tiny animal figurine, a puzzle, a keychain, or a sticker. Whatever it was, it made the candy even more exciting and playful. But did you know that these eggs have a long and worldwide tradition, and have recently faced some controversies and bans? Let's explore the past, present, and future of these eggs, and their cultural and commercial impact.
The origin of eggs with hidden toys is unclear, but some historians trace it back to ancient China or Persia, where they were made of painted clay or porcelain. In the 18th and 19th centuries, French and German chocolatiers created similar figurines made of chocolate, sometimes filled with more candies or small gifts. However, the mass production of these eggs only started in the mid-20th century, especially in Europe and South America. They became part of Easter and Christmas celebrations, but also gained popularity as year-round treats, often aimed at children.
In the 1990s, a new kind of egg emerged, which combined chocolate and toys in a more elaborate and interactive way. In Italy, a company called Ferrero introduced Kinder Surprise, which had a plastic capsule inside a chocolate shell, containing a toy that needed to be assembled or played with. The capsules were often themed, featuring popular cartoon characters, sports teams, or movie franchises. The eggs became a global phenomenon, with millions sold each year in over 100 countries. They also sparked controversies and debates, mainly related to safety and health concerns.
One of the main criticisms of Kinder Surprise and similar products, such as Choco Treasure, was that they posed a choking hazard to young children. The small parts and pieces were allegedly easy to swallow or inhale, and could block the airway or cause other injuries. Several parents reported incidents of emergency room visits or deaths due to eggs-related accidents. In response, some countries banned or restricted the sale and import of eggs with toys, or required warning labels and safety instructions. The United States banned them entirely in 1938, but some individual states allowed them as long as the toys were visible or enclosed in separate packaging.
Another issue with eggs with hidden toys was that they often contained non-edible or non-recyclable materials, such as plastic, metal, or paper, which contributed to environmental waste and pollution. The plastic capsules in Kinder Surprise, for instance, were not biodegradable and had to be discarded separately from the chocolate and foil. Ferrero claimed that they were working on more sustainable solutions, but some critics argued that the entire concept of eggs with toys was inherently unsustainable, as it encouraged disposable and gimmicky consumption.
Despite these challenges, eggs with hidden toys continue to thrive in many countries, with numerous variations and innovations. Some companies have tried to address the safety and environmental concerns by using edible materials, such as rice husks or sugar, or by designing toys that are more durable or educational. Others have embraced the digital age and created apps or virtual games that accompany the chocolate or replace the physical toys. Some cultural and social groups have also appropriated the egg format for their own purposes, such as promoting literacy, diversity, or peace.
One of the latest versions of eggs with hidden toys is Kinder Joy, which Ferrero launched in 2017. Unlike Kinder Surprise, which had the toy inside the chocolate, Kinder Joy has separate compartments for the chocolate and the toy, each with its own opening. The chocolate part contains a soft and creamy center with cocoa and milk, while the toy part features interactive and customizable games, puzzles, or crafts. Kinder Joy marks a new chapter in the evolution of eggs with toys, as it tries to balance the sensory pleasure of eating chocolate with the cognitive and creative stimulation of playing with a toy.
In conclusion, eggs with hidden toys are more than just a sweet and surprising treat. They are a complex and dynamic cultural phenomenon, shaped by history, commerce, safety, and sustainability issues. They have delighted and entertained millions of children and adults around the world, but have also raised ethical and practical questions about their impact on society and the environment. As we enjoy our next egg with a hidden toy, let's also reflect on its story and significance, and how we can make it a more responsible and meaningful experience.