Published on August 26, 2023

Chocolate was used as Money

Cacao was once used as currency. In ancient Mesoamerica, the Maya and Aztec civilizations cherished the cacao beans so much that they used them as currency.

Cacao beans had a high significant and economic value and were considered a luxury item to be worth more than gold dust. The beans were used for trade, religious offerings and even as a unit offering larger transactions. Cacao tree was regulated to maintain the value of cocoa bean. Otherwise it would have been far more tempting to grow your own currency!

White Chocolate is not really chocolate

Technically, white chocolate is not chocolate. It is not considered chocolate since it lacks cacao particles, which are responsible for chocolate's rich flavour. Because it is made up of cocoa butter, sugar, and milk solids, it can retain its creamy, silky white colour.

World Chocolate Day

There is an actual holiday to celebrate chcolate on July 7th every year. This date marked the day when chocolate was first introduced in Europe in 1550.

Here are some ways you can celebrate World Chocolate Day:

• Chocolate Gift - Surprise your loved one with a box of chocolate and flowers. They will be happy to receive a chocolate gift from you.
• Learn about chocolate - Take time to read and research about the history, production and different types and brands of chocolates. I know you are familliar with Ferrero Rocher but there are plenty more.
• Bake! Chocolate! Desserts! - Make use of that oven at home and bake your favourite desserts such as brownies and chocolate truffles. Believe you me, it is very therapeautic.

 'Mouthfeel'

Chocolate melting point is just below human body temperature which is why it melts in your mouth so satisfyingly. The sensation of chocolate melting in the mouth is often described as chocolate 'mouthfeel.' The fat in chocolate, mainly cocoa butter gives it a creamy and silky sensation as it melts, which contibutes to the pleasurable experience of eating chocolate.

Most Cocoa comes from Africa

Ivory Coast is one of the largest producers of cocoa beans which are used in chocolate production. The country favourable climate and geography make it ideal for cocoa farming. However, the country's primary focus is on cultivating and exporting cocoa beans rather than being a major manufacture of finished chocolate products.

Cocoa beans are processed and manufactured into chocolate products in other countries such as Switzerland and United States which are known for their chocolate making expertise and industry.