Prepare for a chocolate coma: Easter and all its sugar-loaded goodness is almost here

These local cuties can’t contain their excitement at a weekend full of chocolate-y fun as they try to cram their yearly dose of sugary goodness into just a few days over the Easter holiday break. It’s an understatement to say chocolate is one of Australia’s favourite foods. And whether it’s milk chocolate, dark, white, caramel, fruit and nut — there are plenty of options to choose from. And here’s a fun fact for you — chocolate production has remained largely the same for thousands of years. UNSW food microbiologist associate professor Jian Zhao said food technologists could experiment with flavours, but despite advancements in research and manufacturing, basic chocolate production had stayed the good old-fashioned way. With WA borders now open, many families would be taking advantage of an Easter getaway this year. According to research by the Australian Retailers Association and Roy Morgan, of the Australians going away this Easter, 63 per cent will be travelling within their own State, 34 per cent will be heading interstate and 3 per cent overseas. It also found 73 per cent of Australians plan on buying food like hot cross buns, chocolates and Easter eggs, spending an average of $100 on these items, with nearly $1.5 billion spent in total. These three tykes got a head start on their Easter fun with Guardian photo shoot — and they got to take the chocolate home. Peyton Leigh Wheatland, 3, says she loves all chocolate — anything in the shape of an egg she will eat and her favourite thing about Easter is holding baskets full of chocolate. Over her Easter holiday, she’s keen to ride her bike with her friends. For Riley Rimmer, 3, the best thing about Easter is eating all the choccie eggs that he will find when he goes on an Easter egg hunt with his family. Likewise, four-year-old Brodie Abreu is most excited about looking for the Easter bunny and eating chocolate. She also looking forward to the Easter break, so she can visit the beach and explore.