by zxyasa (https://sweetsworld.com.au/@zxyasa)
When you think of carnival candy, what comes to mind? Cotton candy, caramel apples, and funnel cakes may top the list, but there’s one sweet treat that has been a staple at Australian carnivals for over 50 years – Bertie Beetle Chocolate. This iconic chocolate-covered honeycomb candy has a rich history and a loyal following. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the sweet history of Bertie Beetle.
The Beginning
Bertie Beetle was first introduced in 1963 by the Australian confectionery company, Nestlé. It was created as a promotional item for the Royal Melbourne Show, one of the largest and most popular agricultural shows in Australia. The candy was named after the show’s mascot, Bertie the Beetle, a cartoon beetle character that was used in advertising for the show.
The Recipe
Bertie Beetle Chocolate is made from a combination of honeycomb, chocolate, and a secret ingredient – fairy floss. This unique combination gives the candy its signature crunchy texture and sweet taste. The honeycomb is made by heating sugar, glucose syrup, and bicarbonate of soda until it expands and becomes light and airy. The fairy floss is then added to the mixture, giving it a hint of cotton candy flavor. The mixture is then coated in milk chocolate, creating the perfect balance of sweetness and crunch.
The Packaging
One of the most recognizable aspects of Bertie Beetle Chocolate is its packaging. The candy is sold in a small, brightly colored paper bag with a cartoon image of Bertie the Beetle on the front. The packaging has remained virtually unchanged since its introduction in the 1960s, making it a nostalgic and beloved part of the candy’s history.
The Popularity
Bertie Beetle quickly became a hit at the Royal Melbourne Show, with thousands of bags being sold each year. Its popularity grew beyond the show, and it became a staple at other Australian carnivals and events. In the 1970s, Bertie Beetle was even sold in supermarkets, making it accessible to everyone. Today, it is still a popular treat at carnivals and can be found in many Australian supermarkets and convenience stores.
The Controversy
In 2015, Nestlé announced that they would be changing the recipe of Bertie Beetle to make it gluten-free. This caused an uproar among fans of the candy, with many expressing their disappointment and concern that the new recipe would not taste the same. However, Nestlé assured customers that the taste and texture of Bertie Beetle would remain the same, and the candy continues to be a beloved treat for many.
Conclusion
Bertie Beetle Chocolate has become a beloved part of Australian culture, with its unique recipe, iconic packaging, and rich history. Whether you’re a fan of carnival candy, Australian chocolate, or just have a sweet tooth, Bertie Beetle is a must-try treat. So next time you’re at a carnival or browsing the candy aisle, be sure to grab a bag of Bertie Beetle and indulge in a piece of sweet history.
