Thieves steal truck carrying over 400,000 KitKats

Nestlé is dealing with a pretty wild situation after a massive shipment of KitKat bars was stolen in Europe, and it could mean fewer chocolate bars on shelves just as Easter approaches.

The Swiss food giant confirmed the news in a statement, revealing that "a truck transporting 413,793 units of its new chocolate range has been stolen during transit in Europe".

The missing shipment weighed about 12 tons and vanished last week while it was being moved between production and distribution sites.

The brand even had a little fun with the situation, referencing its famous slogan.

"We've always encouraged people to have a break with KitKat," a spokesperson said.

"But it seems thieves have taken the message too literally and made a break with more than 12 tonnes of our chocolate."

Still, the company made it clear the situation could have real consequences for shoppers.

It warned that "the theft may lead to a shortage of KitKats appearing on shelf", adding that "consumers, unfortunately, may struggle to find their favourite chocolates ahead of Easter".

According to Nestlé, the truck had set off from central Italy and was headed toward Poland, with plans to distribute the chocolate across several countries along the way.

The company did not share exactly where the truck disappeared, only noting that "the vehicle and its contents remain unaccounted for".

"Investigations are ongoing in close collaboration with local authorities and supply chain partners," the statement added.

There is also concern about where the stolen candy could end up next.

KitKat warned that the missing bars "could enter unofficial sales channels across European markets".

The company said the products can still be tracked using the unique batch codes printed on each bar.

"If a match is found, the scanner will be given clear instructions on how to alert KitKat who will then share the evidence appropriately," it said.