The new Nutella?
Confirming rumours that were widely reported in mainstream media, Italian manufacturer Barilla announced on Friday (7 December) it will launch a hazelnut and chocolate spread under its Pan di Stelle brand.
It will be launched across Italy in January in a 330 g glass jar with an aluminium lid. The packaging is fully recyclable “to reduce the use of plastic and therefore the impact on the environment”, said Barilla.
It is also made with Italian hazelnuts and is free from palm oil.
“Great care was also given to the product's nutritional profile, with a particular focus on the amount of sugar and saturated fats. On the latter, we emphasize that the recipe is free from palm oil, in line with the rest of Barilla’s current product offer,” the company said.
The spread also contains cookie crumbs that give it a special texture, the company said.
It is seen as a serious contender to Ferrero’s Nutella, the category leader.