salmonella scandal
Edeka makes fun of Ferrero – “brilliant” or “tasteless”?
Among other things, children’s surprise eggs are affected by the Ferrero recall
© Monika Skolimowska / DPA
Food retailer Edeka used the salmonella scandal at Ferrero for its own advertising. However, not everyone finds this funny.
One’s suffering, the other’s glee: The supermarket chain Edeka has reacted to the salmonella scandal at confectionery manufacturer Ferrero with a provocative advertisement. On Facebook and Instagram, the grocer posted an advertisement for the private label copy of Ferrero’s famous children’s chocolate candies. “Guaranteed no surprises” is what they say smugly.
And the Edeka subsidiary Netto also wants to get its slice of attention from the scandal. In the advertising posting for the discounter’s own Easter products, it is formulated even more clearly: “No nasty surprises, children!” So that everyone really understands that the allusion is aimed at the children’s surprise eggs.
However, opinions on the Edeka campaign differ. In addition to numerous likes and comments such as “brilliant advertising”, Edeka also received many critical reactions. “I find it absolutely tasteless to advertise the damage of others,” comments a user on Instagram. Another user attests “lowest level” and speaks of a “bitter aftertaste”. After all, the scandal is also about allegedly hundreds of cases of salmonella poisoning in children, which are associated with the consumption of Ferrero products.
Ferrero expands recall, authorities investigate
Meanwhile, surprise egg manufacturer Ferrero continues to struggle with the aftermath of the scandal. The Belgian authorities temporarily closed the factory in Arlon at the end of last week after it emerged that Ferrero had known about the salmonella infestation in the factory since mid-December. A comprehensive product recall only followed last week. The Belgian public prosecutor is now investigating the case.
The damage to Ferrero is massive. Numerous bestsellers are affected by the recall, such as children’s surprise eggs, children’s chocolate bons, special Easter offers and even items from the past Christmas season. The products were sold in German supermarkets, among others, but also in other European countries as well as in Israel and Australia. On Tuesday, Ferrero extended the recall once again – and also recalled products in New Zealand. Consumer advocates have heavily criticized the group for not informing the population about the salmonella cases earlier.