Last week, there were literally riots in French supermarkets as people jostled each other to get their hands on a jar of Nutella! It turns out that the retail store had announced very steep discounts on this chocolate-hazelnut delicacy loved by the French.

The French government is investigating the incident and may put legal restrictions on how much food can be discounted. Meanwhile, we look at the history of Nutella. 

In Piedmont, Italy, after World War Two, a pastry maker ingeniously made a creamy and decadent paste out of hazelnuts, sugar, and cocoa. Pietro Ferrero molded this creation into a loaf that could then be cut into slices and served atop bread. This loaf was given the name 'Giandujot' which was inspired by the name of a local carnival figure.

On May 14th, 1946, the famous Ferrero Company was established. A few years down the road, the paste was made into a new treat that could be spread onto bread with ease. This new product was called ‘SuperCrema.’ Soon, Ferrero’s son, Michele, experimented with and improved the recipe of the cream. This became the first jar of hazelnut and cocoa cream that was completely nameless. He then used his creative mind to invent a unique and catchy name, ‘Nutella.’ The new jar design has become iconic and has allowed for greater success.

Nutella has since spread to all of Europe. Germany has fallen in love with Nutella and so has France. After reaching Europe, Nutella ventured to Australia. Lithgow, Australia became home to Nutella’s first production plant outside of its founding continent.

After Australia, Nutella has made its way to the north, south, east, and west, gaining more popularity each and every day. 

Do you love Nutella? What do you spread it on?