Wal-not Whip: twist on classic treat angers traditionalists

‘Never really been a walnut girl but I feel removing them is the beginning of the end for society as we know it’

NESTLE is launching a nut-free range of its classic Walnut Whip in a move that has angered some chocolate lovers.

The firm claims the vanilla, caramel and mint varieties will offer consumers more choice.

However, the new “wal-not whip” has not gone down well with everyone.

One fan, Hannah Muirhead, said: “Never really been a walnut girl but I feel removing them from the walnut whip truly is the beginning of the end for society as we know it.”

Nestlé were quick to reassure fans the Walnut Whip is not being removed from sale.

A spokesman said: “Walnut Whip remains on sale alongside our new versions that represent an expansion of the range. This means there is something for consumers wanting to try something new as well as for longstanding fans of our century-old walnut product.”

UK prices of walnuts rose 20 per cent earlier this year, and some have suggested the original Walnut Whip has suffered from “shrinkflation” – where products are made smaller to accommodate increases in cost.

Helen Graham, an importer, said that strong global demand for walnuts, together with a poor crop in Chile last year and the falling value of the pound was behind the price rise.

She told The Guardian: “There was a shortage and then there is the additional factor of exchange rates and rising transport costs as well.”

Some sweet-toothed Twitter users welcomed the move. One, using the handle Big Steve, wrote: “For 40 years I’ve picked off the walnut and thrown it away! At long last a decent choice made.”

The Walnut Whip was launched in 1910 by Duncan’s of Edinburgh and is one of Nestlé’s oldest brands.

Alison Clinton, a brand manager at Nestlé, said: “We are very excited to bring these new additions to Walnut Whip. These new products will offer consumers more choice enabling them to share their favourite products with their family and friends.”