Do you chew your chocolate? Eat more than six squares? Enjoy it at night? You’re doing it wrong!
One of life’s simple pleasures turns out to be surprisingly complicated. Here’s what a food scientist says (click HERE).
Category: News
Scharffen Berger revamps chocolate brand
Scharffen Berger revamps chocolate brand
Scharffen Berger Chocolate Maker, a producer of premium chocolate products, has finalized its major brand overhaul after two years. The rebrand followed Scharffen Berger’s return to private ownership in 2020, having been owned by The Hershey Co. since 2005. As part of the overhaul, the company has updated its imaging, added a variety of new chocolate products and made several additions to its leadership team.
HALLOWEEN IS COMING WITH A 5% INCREASE IN CHOCOLATE AND CANDY SALES
HALLOWEEN IS COMING WITH A 5% INCREASE IN CHOCOLATE AND CANDY SALES
The National Confectioners Association is projecting a 5% increase in chocolate and candy sales for the 2022 Halloween season as consumers nationwide go bigger and bolder in their celebrations – with some starting earlier than in previous years.
Two companies had a big battle in Swiss court and now one must murder its chocolate bunnies
Two companies had a big battle in Swiss court and now one must murder its chocolate bunnies
If you’re a fan of chocolate bunnies, you might have to say goodbye to one brand’s version of the treat. Lindt & Spruengli’s foil-wrapped chocolate bunnies deserve protection from copycat products, Switzerland’s highest court ruled, and ordered German discounter Lidl to stop selling a similar product in Switzerland and to destroy its remaining stock.
Happy National Chocolate Milk Day! September 27, 2022
Happy National Chocolate Milk Day! September 27, 2022
M&M’s fans discover meaning behind the chocolate’s name
M&M’s fans discover meaning behind the chocolate’s name
M&M’s are eaten by chocolate lovers around the world – but do you know what the initials stand for? The answer might surprise you. (Click HERE)
Happy Chocolate Day! September 13, 2022
Happy Chocolate Day! September 13, 2022
Macklemore almost got kicked out of Chocolate World before his Hersheypark concert
Macklemore almost got kicked out of Chocolate World before his Hersheypark concert
As you might know, the rapper Macklemore (”Thrift Shop,” “Can’t Hold Us”) opened for Imagine Dragons at Hersheypark Stadium (Aug. 12 to be exact). What you might not know is he tried to buy some candy at Chocolate World next door before the show and almost got into a bit of trouble due to his method of conveyance. Click HERE to see why.
Never eat more than this amount of chocolate per day; do you know why?
Never eat more than this amount of chocolate per day; do you know why?
Chocolate is a true national addiction. Nobody disagrees with that! It is passionate and versatile, as you can find it in every way and in various recipes. Although it is a delicious type of dessert, it is not entirely healthy. In fact, pure and simple chocolate is not Harmful Health, but all things mixed with it to make it more delicious, yes. The most common, which people like most, receive several components: a lot of milk, sugar and fat.
This Flower Smells Like Chocolate, and It Is One of the Rarest in the World
This Flower Smells Like Chocolate, and It Is One of the Rarest in the World
You would typically find chocolates inside the fridge, but who knew you could also find chocolates in the garden? Chocolate Cosmos (Cosmos atrosanguineus) is a rare flower that you’d gladly stop and smell, seeing as its most distinct feature is that it has a chocolate scent. With velvety-red petals and a center that’s nearly black, the flower easily reminds people of different desserts.
Is dark chocolate good for you?
Is dark chocolate good for you?
The easiest answer to our initial question is yes; dark chocolate does contain a multitude of nutrients such as zinc, iron, and magnesium, as well as an abundance of antioxidants called flavonoids. Dark chocolate also has far lower levels of sugar and fat than milk and white chocolate, but as a rule, the lower the percentage of cocoa solids, the higher the added sugar and fat content will be. Dark chocolate will typically contain between 50 and 90 per cent cocoa solids, whereas milk chocolate usually sits somewhere between 10 and 50 per cent. Some studies also suggest that eating cocoa flavonoids can reduce blood pressure and that there is a link between eating dark chocolate and a reduced risk of heart disease. Dark chocolate is relatively high in calories, but the heart-protective benefits appear to outweigh the risk. So as it turns out, a little bit of dark chocolate each day can, in fact, help to keep the doctor away.
How chocolate gets its flavor
How chocolate gets its flavour
The flavor of chocolate depends on a long process of fermentation and drying of the cocoa beans. Scientists are working on giving farmers the scientific tools to produce tastier beans. For a more detailed explanation, click HERE, to watch a video.
5 surprising health benefits of eating chocolate
5 surprising health benefits of eating chocolate
Chocolate is known for being creamy, rich, decadent and — healthy? While this sweet treat is commonly viewed as a guilty pleasure, research shows chocolate actually offers multiple health benefits. Here are some of the things that chocolate can do for you and your body (click HERE).
The Making of Modern Chocolate
The Making of Modern Chocolate
It’s impossible to say exactly when, or by whom, the modern chocolate concoction was invented. The Spaniards were the first to mix chocolate with cinnamon, black pepper, and anise instead of the Mesoamericans’ original blend of chiles, vanilla, and achiote. The Swiss created the famous fondant and added dried milk. Belgians adapted the praline (a French confection of caramelized almonds), thus making the popular chocolate bonbons that became a sought-after staple for Valentine’s Day. The Dutch became the pioneers of cocoa powder. BUT WHOEVER CLAIMS THE ULTIMATE CREDIT, CHOCOLATE AS WE KNOW IT TODAY WOULDN’T HAVE BEEN POSSIBLE WITHOUT THE JEWS (learn more HERE).
Consuming raw form of chocolate may help to relieve migraines
Consuming raw form of chocolate may help to relieve migraines
Migraines account for 30 percent of the world’s headache disorders and are currently incurable, according to the World Health Organization. Dr. Paul Durham, distinguished professor of biology at Missouri State University, has experienced a migraine himself. But his recent discovery could be the key to natural, sweet relief for some migraine patients (click HERE to learn more).
Happy National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day! August 4, 2022
Happy National Chocolate Chip Cookie Day! August 4, 2022
Happy World Chocolate Day! July 7, 2022
Happy World Chocolate Day! July 7, 2022
Toblerone chocolate to no longer have ‘Switzerland’ label
Toblerone chocolate to no longer have ‘Switzerland’ label
Toblerone will have to drop “Switzerland” from its packaging as the mountain-shaped chocolate will no longer be exclusively produced in its home country from 2023. Toblerone will open a new production line in Slovakia by the end of the year “to respond to the growing demand.” “For legal reasons, the changes we are bringing to our production require us to adjust our packaging to comply with the Swiss law, particularly to remove the word ‘Switzerland’ from the packaging front,” the company said.
This Thief Won This Bank’s Trust By Bringing Them Chocolate And Then Stole $28 Million In Diamonds
Why The Origin Of Chocolate Milk Is So Controversial
Why The Origin Of Chocolate Milk Is So Controversial
Where did chocolate milk come from? Who was the first person to inquire, “You know what would make this glass of milk taste even better?” Chocolate milk has, in reality, been around a lot longer than one may believe — and it was first concocted in a perhaps unexpected place. But the drink’s origins are often muddled, which has caused disputes between cultures throughout history.
Happy National Chocolate Pudding Day! June 26, 2022
Happy National Chocolate Pudding Day! June 26, 2022
Two people rescued after falling into chocolate tank at Mars Wrigley factory in Pennsylvania
Two people rescued after falling into chocolate tank at Mars Wrigley factory in Pennsylvania
Two people had to be rescued after falling in a tank that contained chocolate at a Mars Wrigley factory in Pennsylvania.
Happy National Chocolate Éclair Day! June 22, 2022
Happy National Chocolate Éclair Day! June 22, 2022
Happy National Chocolate Ice Cream Day! June 7, 2022
Happy National Chocolate Ice Cream Day! June 7, 2022
Can You Get Sick From Eating 2-Year-Old Chocolate?
Can You Get Sick From Eating 2-Year-Old Chocolate?
Fortunately, chocolate generally has a fairly long life. USA Today explains that, while chocolate bars can go bad, it’s unlikely that you’ll get sick from eating last year’s chocolate easter bunny. Generally, when chocolate bars expire, it’s due to additives like peanut butter, dairy, or caramel.
Why Italy’s ‘king of chocolate’ is so delicious
Americans Curb Chocolate Bingeing as Inflation Hits Candy Aisles
Americans Curb Chocolate Bingeing as Inflation Hits Candy Aisles
Americans are eating less chocolate as the sweet treat gets more expensive. With inflation hitting US shoppers at the fastest pace in decades, indulgences like candy are becoming a casualty. Chocolate sales have been dropping for three straight quarters. Volumes sold at retail shops in a recent 13-week period slipped 6.3%, while prices rose 11% from a year ago, according to Chicago-based market researcher IRI.
The world’s true cradle of chocolate
The world’s true cradle of chocolate
There are nearly a dozen artisan chocolate companies in Belize taking cacao from bean to bar, part of a robust movement to reclaim the small country’s rich chocolate heritage.
Can You Die From Eating Too Much Chocolate?
Can You Die From Eating Too Much Chocolate?
Many of us will have made the mistake of indulging in excessive amounts of moreish chocolate, but would a death literally caused by eating too much chocolate really be possible? According to some experts, the answer is yes. Find out why, HERE.
Penn State brings back summer chocolate short course after decades long hiatus
Penn State brings back summer chocolate short course after decades long hiatus
This summer, for the first time in nearly three decades, the department of food science in Penn State’s College of Agricultural Sciences will host the Penn State Chocolate Short Course, a unique offering for not only craft and industrial chocolate manufacturers, but also entrepreneurs interested in starting up a new chocolate business.
Happy National Chocolate Chip Day! May 15, 2022
Happy National Chocolate Chip Day! May 15, 2022
Engineering students 3D print decorative molds for Mānoa chocolate shop
Engineering students 3D print decorative molds for Mānoa chocolate shop
When you see a box of chocolates, you might not realize how much engineering goes into each individual truffle. Students in the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s Department of Mechanical Engineering learned first-hand as part of the new course in Advanced Additive Manufacturing. Under the guidance of Assistant Professor Tyler Ray, approximately 10 upper-level mechanical engineering students spent the spring 2022 semester developing a system based upon 3D printing to produce custom chocolate molds for the chocolate shop Choco leʻa, located in Mānoa valley just one mile away from campus.
The Massive Amount Of Water Needed To Make A Chocolate Bar
The Massive Amount Of Water Needed To Make A Chocolate Bar
Chocolate is enjoyed all around the world and rightfully so; It’s delicious. But it’s also quite water intensive. According to Water Footprint, a 100 gram chocolate bar takes about 1700 liters of water to make. For those from the United States, this means it takes approximately 450 gallons of water to make 3.5 ounces of chocolate. Why so much? Find out HERE.
Controlling chemistry of chocolate making could speed up process without compromising taste
Controlling chemistry of chocolate making could speed up process without compromising taste
An alternative way to make dark chocolate has been created that is faster and more controllable than the conventional fermentation method. Chocolate made this way smells and tastes similar so could replace the usual process. Read more HERE.
Dutch scientists design ‘most enjoyable’ chocolate texture
Dutch scientists design ‘most enjoyable’ chocolate texture
Scientists from the University of Amsterdam, Delft University and Unilever have found a way to “optimize” the enjoyment of chocolate by 3D printing uniquely shaped and structured chocolate.
Studies show the benefits of eating chocolate by the elderly
Studies show the benefits of eating chocolate by the elderly
Studies have proven that chocolate improves memory and thinking in the elderly, as its consumption directly affects the brain, strengthens neurons, facilitates blood flow in the brain and activates the cognitive system, which is often vulnerable in the elderly.
Why chocolate is so expensive this year
Why chocolate is so expensive this year
You may have noticed that some chocolates are more expensive this year. Blame rising commodities and energy prices. The chocolate industry has not really escaped the event that affects all economic sectors. With the rise in commodity prices, cocoa prices have risen since this week. But, above all, there is the price of the card used for packaging, which has increased by 50% in the last six months. So some chocolates are starting to send these increases in stores, while others are cutting their margins.
Boston researchers discover ‘promising’ benefits from cocoa flavanols
Boston researchers discover ‘promising’ benefits from cocoa flavanols
Boston researchers have discovered that daily capsules with 500 mg of cocoa flavanols — compounds found in foods such as cocoa, tea, grapes and berries — may cut down cardiovascular risk. The first large-scale trial to test the long-term effects of a cocoa flavanol supplement to prevent cardiovascular disease showed the compound can reduce cardiovascular death by 27%.
Woman Sues Over Delivery of Chocolate Penis With ‘No Redeeming Qualities’
Woman Sues Over Delivery of Chocolate Penis With ‘No Redeeming Qualities’
A Ventura County supervisor is suing Dick at Your Door for sending a five inch penis-shaped chocolate to her residence.
The Worldwide Carob Chocolate Industry is Expected to Reach $1.1 Billion by 2027
The Worldwide Carob Chocolate Industry is Expected to Reach $1.1 Billion by 2027
The Global Carob Chocolate Market size is expected to reach $1.1 billion by 2027, rising at a market growth of 5.5% CAGR during the forecast period. Carob chocolates are made up of dried carob pods. The preparation process of carob chocolates involves various steps. Firstly, the carob pods are cleaned and dried then the dried pods are grinded and carob powder is refined from the grinded powder. After this, the extracted powder is used in making of carob chocolates, bars and chips.
Happy American Chocolate Week! March 20-26, 2022
Happy American Chocolate Week! March 20-26, 2022
7 Dark Chocolate Health Benefits
7 Dark Chocolate Health Benefits
Chocolate is one of life’s most decadent treats. No matter how you enjoy it — as a candy bar, in a hot drink, drizzled over ice cream — chocolate brings joy. And dark chocolate brings 7 health benefits to the table. Click HERE to see what they are.
Congressional chorus urges Eric Adams not to ban chocolate milk in NYC schools
Congressional chorus urges Eric Adams not to ban chocolate milk in NYC schools
Nine members of New York’s congressional delegation are urging health-conscious Mayor Eric Adams not to ban chocolate milk from being offered in New York City’s public school cafeterias. Rep. Sean Patrick Maloney joined eight others in stating that eliminating chocolate milk will just lead to more milk waste because fewer kids will drink regular milk.
Eating chocolate could help you lose weight!
Eating chocolate could help you lose weight!
According to new studies, the timing might be everything when it comes to eating chocolate. Eating chocolate at a certain time of day could help the body burn fat. A lot of people crave a sweet treat to help them get through the day, despite the realization that sugary snacks can be detrimental to maintaining a healthy weight. A new study from researchers at Brigham and the University of Murcia in Spain, shows that postmenopausal women who enjoy a concentrated amount of chocolate during a narrow window in the morning could be able to burn fat and decrease sugar levels.
Happy Chocolate Cheesecake Day! March 6, 2022
Happy Chocolate Cheesecake Day! March 6, 2022
How an NYC Chocolate Factory Expertly Crafts 4,000 Bars a Day
How an NYC Chocolate Factory Expertly Crafts 4,000 Bars a Day
Chocolate is one of the most popular sweets in the world, and at Raaka Chocolate in NYC, obsessive sourcing, intricate machinery, and expert craftsmanship allows the company to produce what Dan Does host Daniel Geneen calls one of the highest quality chocolate bars in the world. Follow Geneen as he takes a tour of Raaka Chocolate’s factory to observe and participate in their process of making the company’s signature Maple & Nibs bar. Click HERE for the video.
Silicon Valley Is Coming for Your Chocolate
Silicon Valley Is Coming for Your Chocolate
One day, the cocoa in beloved treats might come from a petri dish. In fact, it’s now being produced in a lab by scientists at California Cultured, a start-up based in Davis, California.
What’s The Difference Between Hot Chocolate And Hot Cocoa?
What’s The Difference Between Hot Chocolate And Hot Cocoa?
Experts explain that while the terms are often used interchangeably, they represent two distinct beverages. Click HERE to find out what the differences are!
Chemicals in wine and chocolate help scientists create coating that destroys body odor
Chemicals in wine and chocolate help scientists create coating that destroys body odor
Scientists have created an anti-microbial lining that can wipe out body odor thanks to some sweet-smelling chemicals in wine and chocolate. Researchers at the University of Tokyo say the invention opens the door to making clothes that don’t have to go in the washing machine all the time.
7 Incredible Effects of Giving Up Chocolate for a Month, Says Research
7 Incredible Effects of Giving Up Chocolate for a Month, Says Research
If you are a chocolate lover, then you are not alone. According to research, Americans, on average, eat approximately 9.5 pounds of chocolate per year, coming in 9th place for the world’s top 10 chocolate consumers. If you think that’s a lot though, take a look at Switzerland—on average each person there enjoys approximately 19.8 pounds of chocolate annually. Talk about a sweet tooth! Consider, though, the benefits of giving up chocolate for a month (click, HERE).
Happy Chocolate Mint Day! February 19, 2022
Happy Chocolate Mint Day! February 19, 2022
Global Vegan Chocolate Confectionery Market (2021 to 2027) – by Type, Product and Region
Global Vegan Chocolate Confectionery Market (2021 to 2027) – by Type, Product and Region
The Global Vegan Chocolate Confectionery Market size is expected to reach $1 billion by 2027, rising at a market growth of 12.3% CAGR during the forecast period.
The Price Of Chocolate Could Climb Higher Than Ever. Here’s Why
The Price Of Chocolate Could Climb Higher Than Ever. Here’s Why
Chocolate companies that rely on cocoa beans from West Africa’s Ivory Coast are facing a shortage due to a drought. The outlet calls this region “the world’s largest exporter of cocoa beans,” and the hot weather without rain will certainly be felt at the cash register when you purchase chocolate in the future, according to analysts. Sugar prices have climbed too, creating an additional expense for chocolatiers. Even the cost of packaging chocolate has increased this year.
Happy Chocolate Day! February 9, 2022
Happy Chocolate Day! February 9, 2022
Students Protest Removal of Chocolate Milk From School Lunch Menu
Students Protest Removal of Chocolate Milk From School Lunch Menu
A group of students were not happy with their school district’s recent decision to remove chocolate milk from the lunch menu, so they galvanized and staged their own outdoor protest. The group effort worked to bring chocolate milk back, albeit in a very limited capacity. The student body backlash took place last Friday at Sierra Vista K-8, part of the Vacaville Unified School District in Vacaville, California. Turns out, the sugar content was the reason the milk was pulled from the menu. It led to somewhat of a compromise between officials and the chocolate milk aficionados: Chocolate milk would be offered one day per week every two weeks.
Candy Makers Say Expect Shortages This Valentine’s Day
Candy Makers Say Expect Shortages This Valentine’s Day
Hershey says it lacks manufacturing capacity and labor to meet demand; Oreo maker Mondelez also struggles with supplies.
When to eat chocolate to protect the heart and lower cholesterol? Grandma’s trick
When to eat chocolate to protect the heart and lower cholesterol? Grandma’s trick
Dark chocolate should be eaten mid-morning or mid-afternoon. Contains flavonoids. These substances reduce cholesterol levels, protect the cardiovascular system with the heart in particular. They have an anti-aging effect, improving the health of the skin and our body.
New research reveals cadmium’s route into chocolate
New research reveals cadmium’s route into chocolate
Committed chocoholics, be warned. A health-robbing heavy metal, cadmium, lurks in the velvety recesses of your favorite indulgence. Researchers have chased the source of cacao’s cadmium contamination for years, but an array of distinct sampling methods and sites led to mixed results. In a new analysis, University of Illinois scientists consider the soil factors influencing cadmium’s ride into cacao beans, with the aim of recommending feasible and cost-effective ways farmers can minimize uptake.
Happy Chocolate Lovers’ Month! February, 2022
Happy Chocolate Lovers’ Month! February, 2022
M&M’s mascots get ‘refreshed’ look to reflect ‘today’s society’
M&M’s mascots get ‘refreshed’ look to reflect ‘today’s society’
M&M’s are getting a sweet makeover in 2022. The chocolate candies that melt in your mouth and not in your hand are giving fans a new way to love their favorite treat. Mars, Inc. announced that they will be redesigning their M&M’s mascots — the array of rainbow-colored talking chocolate balls. The six “refreshed” characters are most noticeably sporting new shoes. The green M&M has thrown out her high-heeled boots for sneakers, while the brown candy is wearing lower heels. Both the red and yellow characters’ shoes have laces, while the orange orb’s kicks now have untied laces. Each M&M’s shape has now also been more defined with arms and legs that are now not a tan hue, but of a lighter, more neutral shade.