A chocolate maker whose motto is “let’s make chocolate 100% slave-free” has admitted that at least 1,700 children were involved in its supply chain last year, demonstrating that even so-called ethical brands face child labour risks.

Dutch confectionery company Tony’s Chocolonely has previously partnered with A-list celebrities, including American musician Pharrell Williams and British actor Idris Elba. In an advert from 2020, Elba said: “What’s not to love about chocolate? Well, 2 million children working illegally on cocoa plantations. That’s unfair.”