As we approach the third consecutive Friday without Nutella, students everywhere are asking, “Where’s the hazelnut?” For those who are unaware of the current Nutella situation, just a few short weeks ago, “Nutella Friday” had become somewhat of a tradition. Every Friday, the sandwich bar, usually containing peanut butter, jelly, and soy-nut butter, was joined by the ever-popular Nutella. But now, without warning, Nutella has disappeared from the sandwich scene, perhaps never to return.

The sudden change begs the question, “Why take away Nutella?” and “Why now?” Sure, Nutella is high in calories, and yes, considering the copious amounts that we consume each week, it may not be cost effective. But what if there is a more sinister reason behind the mysterious Nutella disappearance? I’m talking of course, about the alarming rate at which anti-Nutella organizations are growing. Although still a minority, these radical snack enthusiasts threaten to upset the delicate sandwich spread balance.

Nutella is viewed by many as flavor enhancer, a brilliantly devised spreadable snack brought to you by the Ferrero Company. Nutella’s overall versatility and bread compatibility place it among the greatest sandwich spreads of all time. However, one Anti-Nutella group goes so far as to call Nutella a “killer of flavor imagination and gastronomic curiosity.” But, what warrants more concern is the fact that this group has generated three hundred eighty six members and counting. While this is not a very large number relative to the hundreds of pro-Nutella groups that exist today, we must be vigilant in preventing Nutella’s world extinction.

While this development is not exceedingly worrisome, it should serve as a wakeup call. We have taken our Nutella supply for granted. And now, facing an impending crisis, we must petition to bring it back. While the process may be gradual, with focus and determination we may be able to return Nutella to where it belongs: at the sandwich bar every Friday.