More than 12 tonnes of KitKat disappeared from a European distribution route, sparking a cross-border probe and a public appeal for batch number tips.

Thieves stole more than 400,000 KitKat bars, weighing approximately 12 tons, during distribution of cargo across Europe.

The confectionery products from the Swiss company Nestlé were stolen on the route from a factory in central Italy to Poland.

The vehicle and its contents remain unknown; investigations are ongoing in close collaboration with local authorities and supply chain partners.

– Nestlé

Number of stolen bars and the manufacturer’s statement

The company said that 413,793 KitKat bars were stolen. Each bar has a batch number on the packaging, and KitKat asks to report if a matching number is found.

As reported in the joint statement by the International Union of Marine Insurance (IUMI) and TAPA EMEA, cargo thefts and transport fraud are rising and becoming increasingly sophisticated.

– IUMI and TAPA EMEA

In a KitKat statement, there was also the phrase: “We have always encouraged people to take a break with KITKAT – but it seems the thieves took that literally and took a break on more than 12 tons of our chocolate”.

While we value the criminals’ exceptional taste, the fact remains: cargo thefts are an escalating problem for businesses of any size.

– KITKAT spokesperson

In a Sunday Instagram post, KitKat assured that there is no cause for concern about consumer safety, and that supply has not been affected.

This is not the only large chocolate theft to have occurred recently in Europe: in July 2023, a Briton was sentenced to 18 months in prison for stealing 200,000 Cadbury Creme Eggs. According to PA Media, Joby Pool broke into the production facility and hauled them away in a stolen van. These milk chocolate eggs with a yellow and white fondant filling have a cult following in the United Kingdom and are typically sold during the Easter period.

Such incidents underscore the rising danger to food industry logistics and the need to bolster cargo protection on the way to consumers.