Nestle launches new smaller-sized ‘portion-controlled’ Killer Python lolly
Global food and beverage manufacturer Nestle has halved the size of its Allen’s brand Killer Python lolly in Australia — a move it said was “aimed at bringing confectionery serves down to scale”.
The new treat size Killer Python weighs in at 24g, or 336kJ, compared to the original 47g, 630kJ version. The move is part of Nestlé’s efforts to help Australians better manage their health, by controlling the amount of food, especially treats, they eat.
Dietitian Melanie McGrice said that shrinking confectionery portions to a more appropriate single serve is one step in helping people control their nutritional intake.
“Controlling portion size is an effective, simple and reliable tool that is used in maintaining a balanced diet,” Ms McGrice said. “A 10 year old can now run off a Killer Python in around 30 minutes. With the previous size, it would have taken almost an hour,” she said.
“Experience working as a dietitian has shown me that telling people to cut all treat foods out of their diet is unrealistic and unachievable in the long term,” Ms McGrice said. “A truly happy and healthy life comes through balance,” she said.
Allen’s Killer Pythons will be one of the first products in Nestlé’s range to include a new consumer-friendly portion guidance device.
“From my experience people often can’t judge serving sizes,” Ms McGrice said. “The portion guidance device clearly illustrates serving size and helps people enjoy their food, but know when to stop,” she said.
Nestlé General Manager, Confectionery, Martin Brown said that resizing the Killer Python was “only the beginning” of this Nestlé initiative.
“We’re now offering confectionery with responsibly sourced ingredients, on-pack portion education and changes such as revised portion sizes and resealable packaging,” Mr Brown said. “It’s part of helping people improve their nutrition, health and wellness, and underlines our fundamental belief that for a company to be successful, it must also create value for society,” he said.
Allen’s treat size Killer Pythons will be in stores in Australia from October 2014.