I sure did love these things as a kid! As Easter approaches tomorrow, I know many of us will be eating them again. The ingredients in the U.S. Cadbury egg have evolved and drastically changed over time. The Cadbury egg is not the same treat that was made nearly 200 years ago. As time has evolved, the U.S. has changed their recipe allowing the use of artificial food dye. (Yellow #6). If you were to buy the U.S. Cadbury egg in Europe, it would contain a warning label that reads "May have an Adverse Effect on Activity and Attention of Children." As parents, I know that would make us all take pause before putting them in the Easter baskets of our children. All Cadbury eggs made in the U.K. are naturally colored with paprika extract. These U.S. made dyes (Yellow #6) are also contaminated with carcinogens. This is an extremely toxic ingredient to adults, but more especially to children.
When the Cadbury egg was founded in 1824 by John Cadbury, the company probably had a much different idea in mind. Cadbury was touted as having a pure form of cocoa that provided health benefits. On their advertisement, it was listed that the Cadbury Cocoa sustained against fatigue, increased muscular strength and provided physical endurance. This is because they were using cocoa vs. the artificial colorings we see today.
It's too bad we can't all get them shipped in directly from the U.K. Until that day comes, you can make them yourself or enjoy with caution.
Jessica Johnston, IINHC
Self Theory Integrative Nutrition