King-sized Snickers put on a diet

Leading food manufacturer Mars plans to cut its chocolate products containing more than 250 calories by the end of next year around the world as part of its “broad-based commitment to health and nutrition”.

The new limit means 540-calorie king-sized Snickers bars, the company’s top-selling bar in New Zealand, will no longer be available.

Other popular king-sized bars - Mars, Twix and Milk Way meet the calorie count, a spokeswoman told APNZ.

The company, which also makes M&Ms, Skittles and Juicy Fruit chewing gum, said the goal was part of an ongoing effort to improve the nutritional value of its products, managing portions and calories and selling them in a responsible way.

Good news for chocolate addicts though - the move will not include ‘duo packs’ or larger family bars, which will be allowed a higher calorie allowance because they are designed to be shared.

Weight Watchers applauded the announcement. “Portion control goes a long way to helping those who are looking to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight range, so we welcome this move,” spokeswoman Kate Cody said.

“At Weight Watchers we know that the key to weight-loss success is down to four key elements working together; changing your diet and loading up on the right foods, changing habits, regular physical activity and support to maximise motivation.”