Retailers have stocked up on the eggs, and ad campaigns have already begun in an attempt to derive maximum value from the short run-up to Easter, which this year falls early, on 23 March.
Gavin Hayes, general secretary of left-wing think-tank Compass, said: 'The fact that the selling of Easter eggs is already in full swing is yet another example of the relentless targeting of children by marketers selling HFSS foods, which is contributing to obesity and related health problems in children.'
Among the host of seasonal products already unveiled by confectioners are Cadbury Treasure Eggs and a range from Mars targeting 16- to 24-year-olds.