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According to a study of Euromonitor in 2017, the Europeans are the biggest consumers of chocolate in the world, leaded by the Swiss, (19 lb/person/year) the Austrians (18 lb/person/year), and the Germans (17 lb/person/year). Despite all the brands in the USA offering products with chocolate, our country only holds the 10th place, with 10 lb/person/year, just before the French with 9 lb/person/year. However, has you must know, cocoa is not grown in these countries, but in countries where the climate is more favorable and where cocoa has become a real source of development since the 20th century. In this article,...

 I - The history of the cocoa tree Nobody knows exactly when the cocoa tree, also named “Theobroma cocoa”, was discovered. Scientists say that it could be millions of years old. However, we know that the Olmecs first discovered the gustatory properties of its fruit by seeing rodents eating it vigorously. After that, they decided to consume it in the form of a drink, by crushing the cocoa beans, mixing them with water and spices, chilies, and herbs. The Mayans and the Aztecs then followed this tradition and decided to cultivate the ‘food of the gods’, a symbol of wealth...

American people consume 2.8 billion pounds of chocolate each year, or over 11 pounds per person, which is inferior to the Swiss and Europeans. Dark, milk, white chocolate, associated or not with fruits, nuts, caramel, nougatine, liqueur, and some other delicious ingredients, Chocolate is also used in croissants, cakes, pastries, cereals, hot chocolate: in short, our nutrition is full of the “food of the gods- Theobroma Cacao”. But who really knows how chocolate is made? What is the manufacturing process? What are the different steps? Michel Cluizel’s team tries to cover most of your questions in this article. 1. From...

After reading this article, you will no longer doubt the benefits of dark chocolate!  It is important to keep in mind that moderation is key to maintain these benefits in the long term. It is recommended to consume one to two squares of dark chocolate per day (from 70% high in cocoa). This way, you will enjoy the nutritional benefits of dark chocolate while maintaining a reasonable caloric intake. • Antioxidants  Its strong contribution in antioxidant is one of its principal assets. Chocolate contains catechins, flavanols and polyphenols which contribute to the proper functioning of the brain functions, skin, and...

Discover how cacao products can easily be part of your parties, BBQ and gathering with family and friends. Chocolate will bring original flavors to your traditional recipes. Tasty way to impress demanding palates! Breakfast: bacon covered in chocolate Revisit the classic fried bacon! Fry some bacon in a pan. Dip it into tempered chocolate mini-grammes (mini-chips). Let it set in the fridge and enjoy ;) Snacks: pretzels covered in chocolates For those who love sweet and sour as an appetizer! This easy recipe only needs three ingredients: dark chocolate mini-grammes, pretzels twists and cocoa nibs for a crunchy touch.  Please,...