Gift-giver looking for a small box of chocolates
You want to give a modest chocolate gift and are checking whether the size, contents and packaging are right for the occasion.
Who is this distinction important for?
Gift-giver mindful of ingredients
You want to find out before buying whether allergens or alcohol are relevant to the recipient. Check the information on the specific packaging, even if you already know the product.
Shopper comparing sprinkles and chocolates
You’re looking for chocolate, but first need to decide whether you mean a bread topping or a gift. Albert Heijn lists sprinkles and chocolates in separate product categories.
What should you look for when choosing?
First, decide whether you’re looking for chocolate to put on bread or a gift. When choosing a box of chocolates or pralines, consider the quantity you want, the presentation and the recipient’s needs.
| What to consider | What to check when buying | Who it matters to |
|---|---|---|
| Quantity | Check the net weight and consider whether there’s enough in the box for the number of recipients. | If you’re sharing the chocolates, the box needs to contain enough for everyone. Around 43% of consumers put quantity first when making this choice. |
| Gift presentation | Check whether it’s a gift box and which chocolates or pralines it contains. | If you’re giving the box to one person, presentation may matter more than quantity. Around 29% of consumers prioritise whether it’s suitable as a gift. |
| Ingredients and storage | Read the allergen and alcohol information on the packaging and follow the storage instructions. | If you don’t know what the recipient can or wants to eat, check before giving them anything. This is the top priority for around 28% of consumers. |
Common mistakes
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Treating sprinkles like a box of chocolates
Chocolate sprinkles are a bread topping. Albert Heijn lists them separately from chocolates and pralines, so they won’t necessarily meet the same gift-giving needs.
Before choosing, ask yourself whether the recipient wants chocolate for bread or a box of chocolates or pralines.
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Assuming every box of pralines contains the same ingredients
The ingredients vary from one box to another. For example, PLUS lists alcohol in Belchic cream pralines and describes Hamlet Praline collection as alcohol-free; the allergens listed also differ.
Check the ingredients, allergens and any warnings about traces on the packaging of the specific box you choose.
Brands to consider
Choceur
A chocolate brand sold at ALDI, including praline chocolate.
- ALDI lists a filled 200 g variety.
- Check the packaging and ingredients of the variety you choose in store.
Moser Roth
A chocolate brand sold at ALDI, including chocolates and truffles.
- ALDI lists Belgian chocolates in a 400 g pack, among other products.
- Check the range at the store you plan to visit; the products shown may not be available there.
De Ruijter
A brand of bread toppings, including chocolate sprinkles.
- Albert Heijn lists De Ruijter varieties in its sprinkles category.
- Chocolate sprinkles aren’t a box of chocolates or pralines; choose them when you’re looking for a bread topping.
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Frequently asked questions
Can I give chocolate sprinkles instead of a box of chocolates?
That’s a good choice if the recipient wants a bread topping, but not if you’re specifically looking for a box of chocolates or pralines. Albert Heijn lists sprinkles and chocolates as separate product categories.
Where can I find the allergens in a box of chocolates?
Check the ingredients list on the packaging of the box you choose, including any warnings about possible traces. According to Your Europe, allergens in prepacked foods in the EU must be clearly highlighted in the ingredients list.
Are pralines always alcohol-free?
No, it varies by product. PLUS lists alcohol in Belchic cream pralines and describes Hamlet Praline collection as alcohol-free, so check the information on the specific box.
How should I store a box of pralines before giving it as a gift?
Follow the storage instructions on the packaging of the box you choose. PLUS says to store Belchic cream pralines in a cool, dry place; for Hamlet Praline collection, PLUS gives a temperature range of +5°C to +20°C.