Russians can eat a chocolate Putin - for £400

Russians can eat chocolate Putin - for £400
Anaova - 11/18/03

Luxury chocolate bars featuring a portrait of Vladimir Putin have gone on sale in Moscow for £400 each.

Chocolate-maker Konfael has launched the special confectionery at its Moscow branches.

The bars, which weigh 3.3lb each, carry a portrait of the Russian president made from dark and white chocolate and using fruit juice for colouring.

Konfael chairman Irina Eldarkhanova told Russian daily Kommersant: "The bars are not only a symbol of Putin but of well-being and happiness."

Putin enjoys massive popularity in Russia - some recent polls have said 80 per cent of the country back him as president.

Companies have tried to cash in by producing a range of products from rugs to sunflower seeds carrying his portrait or name.