A dramatic rise in chocolate prices, dubbed 'Easter Eggflation,' is being linked to climate change and budget cuts.
New data shows UK Easter chocolate prices surged by two-thirds over three years, with some eggs more than doubling in cost. Galaxy Easter eggs rose 105% per 100g, while Cadbury Creme Eggs increased by 81%.
Experts attribute the spike to cocoa shortages driven by extreme weather in West Africa-home to 60% of global cocoa production. Droughts, floods, and heatwaves have reduced yields by up to 40% in recent years.
In 2025, EU chocolate prices rose 18%, the highest increase among food items.
Chris Jaccarini of the Energy and Climate Intelligence Unit said the crisis is a direct result of global warming. "It's a stark warning of what's ahead," he warned.
Developing nations, particularly in West Africa, are bearing the brunt of climate impacts. Despite international pledges to boost climate finance, countries like the UK plan to slash aid by 14%.
Scientists are exploring alternatives like carob, but the root issue remains the lack of support for vulnerable regions.