How to Store Chocolate, Keeping it Fresh

Chocolate is a beloved treat that can bring joy to anyone's day. However, unlike other types of food, chocolate has a delicate nature that requires specific care to preserve its quality and flavor. Whether you've received a box of chocolates as a gift or have some leftover chocolate from baking, it's important to know how to store it properly to ensure that it lasts as long as possible. In this blog, we'll share some tips on how to preserve chocolate to keep it fresh and delicious for as long as possible.

1. Store in a Cool, Dry Place

Chocolate is sensitive to temperature and humidity, so the best place to store it is in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Ideally, the temperature should be between 60-70°F (15-21°C), with a humidity level of less than 50%. A pantry or cupboard that's not too close to a heat source is a great option. It's also important to avoid storing chocolate in the fridge or freezer, as this can cause condensation to form on the chocolate's surface, which can result in a loss of flavor and texture. 2. Keep Away from Strong Smells: Chocolate can easily absorb strong smells, such as those from onions, garlic, or other pungent foods. As a result, it's essential to keep chocolate in an airtight container, away from any strong-smelling foods or spices. This will help preserve its natural aroma and flavor.

3. Wrap or Seal Properly

If the chocolate you're storing isn't in an airtight container, it's crucial to wrap it properly. Wrapping chocolate in plastic wrap or aluminum foil can help protect it from exposure to air and humidity. You can also use a resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing it. If you're storing chocolate with nuts or dried fruits, it's essential to wrap them separately to avoid moisture transfer.

4. Avoid Temperature Fluctuations

Sudden changes in temperature can cause chocolate to bloom, which is when the chocolate's surface becomes dull and whitish. This is caused by the cocoa butter in the chocolate separating from the other ingredients. To avoid this, it's crucial to keep chocolate in a stable temperature environment, away from any temperature fluctuations. If the chocolate has bloomed, it's still safe to eat but may have a less appealing appearance.

5. Pay Attention to Best Before Date

Chocolate has a relatively long shelf life, but it's important to differentiate between chocolate products. Over time, chocolate can lose its flavor and texture. Typically, solid chocolate bars last much longer than chocolate bonbons/ truffles. Hand-made chocolate bonbons will last only a few weeks, even stored properly, solid chocolate product such as bars can last longer : dark chocolate can last up to two years, while milk chocolate can last about one year and white chocolate can last about six months. It is always best to buy what you need to get always fresh products. Preserving chocolate may seem like a small detail, but it can make a significant difference in the chocolate's taste and texture.

By following these simple tips, you can keep your chocolate fresh and delicious for as long as possible. At Manufacture Cluizel we use exclusively noble ingredients, so we do not use preservatives and guarantee the freshness of our creations.