Nutella and I have a very special relationship. I was introduced to the scrumptious chocolate spread at a very young age whilst visiting family in the Abruzzo region of Italy. Back at school, my friends thought I was absolutely nuts when I would describe the many chocolate feasts my family would enjoy, especially after my aunt had baked a batch of loaves.

Today Nutella is widely known and loved worldwide. Signor Pietro Ferrero of the one and only Ferrero Chocolate company, created the nutty delight in the 1940's in Piemonte where hazelnuts, the principal ingredient of the chocolate spread are prolific. It was in 1964 and following various names that the chocolate paste was christened Nutella - the name we have come to know and love today.

The other key ingredient is palm oil and according to an article on Italian Radio, the French are planning to put in place a 'Fat Tax' which could see the oil increase by 300%. The French are claiming that palm oil is a health hazard and contributes to obesity. The price of Nutella will be sure to rise but will it deter chocoholics and those needing a well deserved choccie fix? I doubt it.