Yes, The Purple One in Quality Street originally contained a Brazil nut, although this was permanently changed to a hazelnut due to wartime shortages.
The Evolution of The Purple One
The beloved Quality Street assortment boasts a rich history, and The Purple One is a quintessential part of its collection, recognized for its distinct shape and indulgent filling. While it is widely known today for its whole hazelnut center, its journey began with a different nut.
- Original Composition: In its initial form, The Purple One was filled with a Brazil nut, providing a unique flavor and texture within the chocolate sweet.
- Impact of Wartime: During periods of wartime, the availability of certain ingredients became constrained. Brazil nuts, in particular, became scarce, necessitating a permanent alteration to the sweet's recipe.
- The Hazelnut Transition: As a direct result of these shortages, the Brazil nut was replaced by a hazelnut. This change became a lasting feature, making the hazelnut the defining ingredient of The Purple One that consumers enjoy currently.
The Enduring Brazil Nut Shape
Despite the significant change in its core ingredient, the physical design of The Purple One has remained consistent. It continues to be distinctively shaped like a Brazil nut, serving as a subtle yet permanent tribute to its original filling and heritage. This unique molding helps it stand out among the diverse selection of Quality Street sweets.
Below is a summary of the change in The Purple One's primary filling:
| Feature | Original (Pre-Wartime) | Current (Post-Wartime) |
|---|---|---|
| Nut Filling | Brazil nut | Hazelnut |
| Sweet Shape | Shaped like a Brazil nut | Shaped like a Brazil nut |
| Reason for Change | N/A | Wartime shortages |
For more details on Quality Street and its history, you can explore the official Nestlé UK & Ireland website.
