Candy eggs have been a staple of Easter celebrations for years, but did you know that they are actually illegal in the United States? That's right, these colorful treats that we all love are not allowed to be sold or distributed in the US. But why is that? Let's take a closer look.
The Reason Behind the Ban
The reason candy eggs are banned in the US is due to a law that was passed in 1938, called the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. This law prohibits the sale of any candy that contains a "non-nutritive object", which is defined as any object that is not food and has no nutritional value.
What Are Non-Nutritive Objects?
Non-nutritive objects can include anything from plastic toys to small trinkets. In the case of candy eggs, the ban refers to the small plastic toys or trinkets that are often found inside the eggs. These objects are seen as potential choking hazards to young children, and as such, are not allowed to be sold in the US.
Exceptions to the Rule
While candy eggs themselves are banned, there are exceptions to the rule. For example, candy eggs that do not contain non-nutritive objects are allowed to be sold in the US. Additionally, candy eggs that are sold as part of a larger set, such as an Easter basket, are also allowed as long as the non-nutritive objects are not sold separately.
Alternative Easter Treats
If you're looking for an alternative to candy eggs, there are plenty of other Easter treats to choose from. Some popular options include chocolate bunnies, jelly beans, and marshmallow chicks. These treats do not contain non-nutritive objects and are therefore allowed to be sold in the US.
The Future of Candy Eggs in the US
While candy eggs are currently banned in the US, there is a possibility that this could change in the future. Some manufacturers are working on creating candy eggs that do not contain non-nutritive objects, which would make them legal to sell in the US. However, until this happens, candy eggs will remain illegal in the United States.
In Conclusion
Candy eggs may be a favorite Easter treat for many, but they are unfortunately illegal in the US due to the potential choking hazard of non-nutritive objects. While there are exceptions to the ban, such as candy eggs that do not contain non-nutritive objects, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with these treats. In the meantime, there are plenty of other delicious Easter treats to enjoy!