Why is a 99 called a 99 and how much do the ice creams cost?

A classic ice cream order that never goes out of style is the 99 Flake.

There have been concerns the classic summertime treat may be at risk this summer, with recent batches of the Flake deemed to be ‘too crumbly’ by ice-cream vendors.

Vendors claim that the quality of the Cadbury Flake 99 has deteriorated since the production of the sweet treat was moved to Egypt.

It is of course an integral part of the ice-cream, and will continue to be so – but have you ever wondered why the 99 Flake has been given that name even though it doesn’t cost 99p?

Why is a 99 called a 99?

Often, people wrongly assume that a 99 Flake must have gotten its name from its original cost. But, that isn’t the case.

Turns out, the ice cream’s history stems back to Italian soft ice cream makers in County Durham in the 1920s.

These artisans decided to incorporate the Cadbury Flake into their ice creams in hopes of increasing customers’ interest and boosting sales.

Their creation become so popular that they decided to come up with a name for their ice cream.

Thanks to an article that appeared in a Cadbury works paper many years ago, we have a better understanding of how they landed on the moniker.

The ‘Flake’ part of its name comes from the fact that it’s served with a Cadbury Flake perched inside.

As for the ’99’ part, Cadbury explains: ‘In the days of the monarchy in Italy, the King has a specially chosen guard consisting of 99 men, and subsequently anything really special or first class was known as ’99’ – and that his how ’99’ Flake came by its name.’

Whatever the origin, best make sure to nab the classic from. your nearest ice cream truck while you can!