Easter chocolate: prices explode-consumers in the trap!

Easter chocolate: prices explode-consumers in the trap!

In the upcoming Easter time, many consumers face the challenge that chocolate products, especially chocolate east bunnies, are often significantly more expensive than conventional chocolate. Consumer advocates report considerable price differences, even within the same brands. For example, the most expensive Easter bunny from Lindt costs around 111% more than the most expensive conventional Lindt bar chocolate. At Ferrero, the price difference is 158%, while Milka even reaches 160%. These are alarming data, which were determined by a price comparison by Billa.at and Interspar.at in March 2025, such as Kleinezeitung.at reported.

The price differences in the 'Manner Oster Minis' are also particularly striking compared to the classic four packing. This shows a difference of 129% based on kilo price.

price increases and their causes

The current price increases in chocolate are not only limited to the festive occasions. According to forecasts, chocolate will generally become more expensive, which has long been related to the highest cocoa prices. Experts assume that increasing prices can be expected. The price for a ton of cocoa from January 2024 to January 2025 rose by about 141%. In January 2023, the price had already quadrupled and now exceeded $ 10,000 per ton. The forecasts for the end of 2025 are expected to be between $ 8,000 and $ 9,000 per ton, as taz.de reported.

An essential factor for rising prices are climatic changes in the growing regions that lead to an increase in missed harvest. The Ivory Coast, which is 41% of the world market for cocoa, is particularly affected. Extreme weather conditions, for example, reduce the harvest yields. In addition, companies such as Ritter Sport and Lindt & Sprüngli have already reacted to rising purchase prices and increased their prices. The price increase in products such as the Milka table (100g) was now a third in many supermarkets, so that it now costs 1.99 euros.

health and environmental aspects

In addition to the increasing prices, health and environmental concerns also emerged. Consumer advocates criticize the use of palm oil in many large Easter chocolate products that are not only considered unhealthy, but also contributes to the destruction of rainforests. These monocultures are problematic and have far -reaching negative consequences for the environment and the health of consumers.

The expert of the consumer association, Birgit Beck, recommends that the buyers, especially pay attention to the basic price award, which is often specified in small writing. The increasing prices and the use of potentially harmful ingredients cure consumers to buy more consciously and also consider sustainable alternatives.