Since hitting Marks & Spencer shelves back in 1990, Colin the Caterpillar has become a staple of children’s birthday parties and an often imitated treat.
The chocolate sponge roll cake is typically filled with chocolate buttercream and a hard chocolate shell, decorated with an edible face and various other sweets. Colin has inspired countless versions from supermarkets such as Asda, Morrisons, Sainsbury’s, Tesco, Waitrose and, of course, Aldi.
In 2021 M&S launched legal action against Aldi in regards to the retailer’s Cuthbert the Caterpillar cake, which they claimed was too similar to the original Colin.
It sparked a frenzy of online activity with Aldi taking to social media to declare “#FreeCuthbert”.
Colin and Cuthbert have since called a truce on the matter after Aldi agreed to alter the appearance of their cake, but with even Poundland getting in on the action what other caterpillar cakes are out there?
1. Aldi – Cuthbert the caterpillar cake
Cuthbert the controversial caterpillar kept his cheeky chocolate grin and is available in Aldi for £4.99, serving up to 12 people. Photo: Aldi
2. Asda – Letty the caterpillar cake
Letty the Caterpillar Cake isn’t as visually similar to Colin, with the name another departure from the M&S original, alongside the icing feet and face. Asda sell Letty for £8 to serve 12 people. Photo: Asda
3. Asda – Frieda the free from caterpillar cake
Asda also sells Frieda the Free From caterpillar cake, which is gluten free, for £7 to serve 8. Photo: Asda
4. M&S – Colin the caterpillar cake
The original, Colin is a guest at around 450,000 birthdays annually according to M&S. His distinctive chocolate face and feet help set him apart from the crowd, along with the variety of additional Colin treats on offer, including a giant version which can serve 40. However if you’re looking to serve a smaller crowd, M&S retail Colin the Caterpillar Cake for £9 to serve 10. Photo: Marks and Spencer