Happy National Hot Chocolate Day! January 31, 2023
Category: News
Toxic metals in chocolate? Health Canada finds levels not concerning following U.S. report
Toxic metals in chocolate? Health Canada finds levels not concerning following U.S. report
Last month, Consumer Reports (CR) revealed that dozens of dark chocolate products sold in the U.S. contain cadmium and lead — two heavy metals that can cause a variety of health problems, like kidney damage and immune system suppression, in both children and adults. Some of the products listed in the report included chocolates from Hershey’s, Theo, Trader Joe’s, and Lindt, among other popular brands — many of which are sold in Canada. However, according to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) and Health Canada’s assessments, the metal levels detected in those products don’t pose a risk to consumers at present. Why are there toxic metal in foods? Read more, HERE.
Chocolate coats tongue to give melt-in-mouth sensation, study finds
Chocolate coats tongue to give melt-in-mouth sensation, study finds
The irresistible melt-in-the-mouth sensation of chocolate comes down to the way it lubricates the tongue, according to scientists. A study investigated the physical process by which a solid square of chocolate morphs into a smooth emulsion. It found that chocolate released a fatty film that coats the tongue, giving a smooth sensation for the entire time it is in the mouth. Dr Siavash Soltanahmadi, the study’s lead researcher at the University of Leeds, said the findings could be used to design low-fat chocolate that mimicked the sensation of a high-fat product.
Barry Callebaut Shares Chocolate Trends for 2023 and Beyond
Barry Callebaut Shares Chocolate Trends for 2023 and Beyond
Chocolate confectionery is an important and dynamic market, expected to be worth over $128 billion/ €107 billion in global retail sales by the end of 2023, with a volume Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 1.9% CAGR over the next 3 years to 2025, according to Euromonitor 2022 research. Innovation plays a key role in that growth projection to meet the latest needs of consumers. The type of indulgence consumers choose depends on their mood or mindset, and their specific attitude towards life.
M&M’s new packaging is causing a stir
M&M’s new packaging is causing a stir
M&M’S is making a statement with its latest candy pack, which features an all-female set of characters — including Purple, its newest addition. It put the company once again knee-deep into culture wars controversy. Candy maker Mars announced that the limited edition all-female pack will include only Purple, Brown and Green — the candy’s trio of female characters, who are upside-down on the package — to “celebrate women everywhere who are flipping the status quo.” The packs are currently on sale.
Happy National Chocolate Cake Day! January 27, 2023
Happy National Chocolate Cake Day! January 27, 2023
Dark Chocolate Isn’t the Only Food With Heavy Metals.
Dark Chocolate Isn’t the Only Food With Heavy Metals.
A recent Consumer Reports investigation struck fear into the hearts of chocolate lovers everywhere. After testing 28 dark chocolate bars, scientists detected the heavy metals lead and cadmium in all of them. For 23 of the chocolate bars, eating just an ounce would put an adult above the daily upper threshold recommended for heavy metals in food by public-health officials in California, which the authors said they chose because it is the most protective standard available. Experts say, however, that this report offers just one small window into a larger problem. Heavy metals are detectable in many different foods, and limited testing and a lack of labeling requirements leave consumers in the dark. But there are steps you can take to limit your exposure and protect your family. Read more HERE.
Confectioners defend safety of dark chocolate
Confectioners defend safety of dark chocolate
The National Confectioners Association has defended the safety of dark chocolate after Consumer Reports brought attention to the amount of cadmium and lead in the products in a report issued Dec. 15. “Chocolate and cocoa are safe to eat and can be enjoyed as treats as they have been for centuries,” the NCA said. “The California Office of Environmental Health Hazard Assessment (OEHHA) guidelines cited in the Consumer Reports study are not food safety standards. An expert investigation conducted through our prior California Proposition 65 settlement (with As You Sow) concluded that cadmium and lead are present in cocoa and chocolate due to soil and that bean cleaning during processing of cocoa beans reduces lead and cadmium in chocolate products…” Read more HERE.
Lead and Cadmium Could Be in Your Dark Chocolate
Lead and Cadmium Could Be in Your Dark Chocolate
Consumer Reports found dangerous heavy metals in chocolate from Hershey’s, Theo, Trader Joe’s and other popular brands. For more of this story and the ones that had the most lead and cadmium, as well as some that are safer, click HERE.
Love Of ‘Dark Chocolate’ Keeps Long Island, NY Holocaust Survivor, 110, Going
Love Of ‘Dark Chocolate’ Keeps Long Island, NY Holocaust Survivor, 110, Going
As for her amazing longevity, Rose Girone attributes it to her love of “dark chocolate” and her only child.
Barry Callebaut announces groundbreaking of new chocolate factory in Neemrana, India
Barry Callebaut announces groundbreaking of new chocolate factory in Neemrana, India
The Barry Callebaut Group, the world’s leading manufacturer of high-quality chocolate and cocoa products, announced the groundbreaking of its third manufacturing facility in India. Upon completion of the new chocolate factory, India will become Barry Callebaut’s largest chocolate producing market in Region Asia Pacific. With this announcement, Barry Callebaut’s total investment in India over the last 5 years is projected to exceed CHF 50 million.
Cacao-Free Chocolate Hits Market
Cacao-Free Chocolate Hits Market
What is being billed as the first “cacao-free” chocolate is now being marketed to British consumers by a startup company. WNWN (Waste Not, Want Not) Food Labs rolled out Waim! Bars to British consumers in September. The name is a play off Daim, the name of a popular candy bar marketed in Europe by Mondelēz International. WNWN has developed a process for making chocolate from carob seeds and fermented barley. Carob has long been used as a chocolate substitute, but the use of barley is new and yields a product that is much closer to traditional cacao-based chocolate.
Can You Fight Inflammation by Drinking Hot Chocolate?
Can You Fight Inflammation by Drinking Hot Chocolate?
The right kind of cacao in your mug could bring health benefits with every sip.
Chocolate is having a moment
Chocolate is having a moment
Chocolate makers are reporting booming sales as stressed out customers reach for something sweet to take the edge off. In the third quarter, 2022, sales of Hershey’s (HSY) chocolates, which include Reese’s, Kit Kat and Hershey bars, jumped 12.6% in retail. Mondelez (MDLZ), the global snack brand that makes Toblerone, Cadbury and others, said its chocolate sales grew 9.3% in the quarter.
Barry Callebaut introduces the second generation of chocolate
Barry Callebaut introduces the second generation of chocolate
140 years after the emergence of the first generation, Barry Callebaut announces the second generation of chocolate. The 2nd Gen chocolate is as pure as it can be: Dark chocolate contains two ingredients, milk chocolate also contains dairy. This new product design is a testament to nature’s flavors as well as the mindfully living consumer by putting ‘cocoa first, sugar last’.
How the world’s best chocolate is getting even better
How the world’s best chocolate is getting even better
In Madagascar, an updated approach to producing cocoa is protecting the country’s endangered lemurs.
Happy National Chocolate Day! October 28, 2022
Happy National Chocolate Day! October 28, 2022
Experts Unwrap The Success Story Of India’s Chocolate Industry
Experts Unwrap The Success Story Of India’s Chocolate Industry
Watch this video (click HERE) to learn about India’s chocolate industry success story.
India makes ‘the smoothest chocolate’ in the world
India makes ‘the smoothest chocolate’ in the world
A breakthrough technological innovation by ITC Ltd. has made it possible for Fabelle Exquisite Chocolates, the in-house luxury chocolate brand from ITC Ltd. to create chocolates as fine as seven microns. Known for crafting unrivaled chocolate experiences, Fabelle Finesse is the smoothest chocolate ever made, and it is made in India. It offers an unrivaled smoothness and melt-in-your-mouth feel. The chocolate was unveiled by Fabelle in collaboration with Chef Adriano Zumbo, a renowned Australian patissier and TV personality.
How To Start A Chocolate Business
How To Start A Chocolate Business
Do you love chocolate? Do you dream of starting your own chocolate business? If so, you’re in luck! This blog post will teach you how to start a chocolate business from scratch. It will cover everything from choosing the right ingredients to marketing your products. So, what are you waiting for? Start reading! (click HERE)
Nestlé pays to eliminate child labor from chocolate supply chain
You’ve (Probably) Been Storing And Eating Your Chocolate All Wrong
You’ve (Probably) Been Storing And Eating Your Chocolate All Wrong
The optimum temperature for keeping chocolate at its best is 18ºC, according to food scientists at Galaxy, meaning unless you have an exceptionally hot household, a cupboard will do just fine. Despite this, over three quarters (78%) have been getting this wrong, by popping their sweet treats into the fridge. Perhaps surprisingly, the company’s food scientists recommend the best time to eat chocolate is earlier in the day, between 9am -11am – something only one in five (20%) of Brits already do. Apparently, this will ensure your palate isn’t tainted by other flavors from lunch. To take this idea one step further, they recommend drinking a glass of cold water before indulging in chocolate. Learn more, HERE.
Food Experts Say Chocolate Shouldn’t Be Kept In The Fridge
Food Experts Say Chocolate Shouldn’t Be Kept In The Fridge
Food experts are advising people not to put chocolate in the fridge. A survey by Galaxy, of 2,000 adults, found 78% store chocolate in the fridge. 18 degrees celsius is believed to be the perfect temperature for chocolate to be both stored and eaten. Experts say the low temperatures, and high humidity levels in fridges can cause blooms, oxidation, and transfers of taste and odor of the chocolate.
Do you chew your chocolate? Eat more than six squares? Enjoy it at night? You’re doing it wrong!
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).
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.