Kinder surprised after toy makes accidental 'KKK' reference
Kinder has apologised to alarmed parents after shipping a Kinder Egg toy that accidentally made a reference to the American fundamentalist hate group - the Ku Klux Klan (KKK).
Kinder apologises for 'KKK' toy
The Kinder Surprise mascot toy in question saw its anthropomorphic chocolate treat spark complaints with the reference to the hate group.
Customers made some comparisons between the mascot and the group. They said the group's ill-famed hood was atop the toy, others said that the hair could be mistaken for Donald Trump's style. In addition to this, the toy is holding three balloons which spell out 'KKK'.
Concerned parents were quick to share their discontent with Kinder on social media. Responses on Twitter include: "make chocolate great again?" and "What's Kinder's surprise? Supporting the KKK?"
Kinder's parent company, Ferrero, has responded to the scrutiny on social media to apologise for any offence caused and to explain that the markings on the toy were a mistake.
A company spokesperson said: "As detailed in the note to our consumer, initially it was designed with one balloon with a âKâ on it.
"However, two more were added to provide a more robust structure, as the safety and quality of our toys is of the utmost importance.
"We had absolutely no intention to make associations with the Ku Klux Klan and we truly apologise to our consumers for any unintentional offence caused."
The toy has since been discontinued, and the company has offered to replace those already distributed.