Are you a self-proclaimed chocolate addict, or maybe a chocolate connoisseur?
Perhaps you run a chocolate-focused food business? Let’s test your knowledge with some quick checks to see how well you know these fascinating chocolate facts.
In this article, we’ll reveal seven surprising facts about chocolate that you might not know. Keep reading to find out!
1. Chocolate Can Melt Easily
Most people know that chocolate melts easily, but do you know the exact temperature needed? When melting chocolate, it’s best to use a double boiler set at a low-medium temperature, around 90°F (32°C). Going above this can damage the chocolate’s quality.
2. Chocolate is a Fruit
Chocolate comes from cacao beans, which are grown on the Theobroma Cacao tree. Like other fruit trees, this tree produces cacao bean pods, making chocolate technically a fruit!
3. White Chocolate Isn’t Real Chocolate
Although white chocolate is often grouped with other types of chocolate, it’s not technically real chocolate. White chocolate contains cocoa butter but lacks cocoa powder, which is why it’s white instead of brown. True chocolate contains both cocoa butter and cocoa powder.
4. The History of Milk Chocolate
While dark chocolate is the original form of chocolate, milk chocolate was invented by Daniel Peter in Switzerland in 1875. His creation marked the beginning of modern milk chocolate.
5. Cacao Trees Can Live Up to 200 Years
Cacao trees can live as long as 200 years, though their lifespan varies depending on the region. In tropical climates, they usually live only up to 25 years. Despite this, each tree can produce up to 2,500 cacao beans per season, which equals roughly 2838 grams of chocolate.
6. The First Chocolate Treat Was Hot Cocoa
The first chocolate "treat" wasn’t a cake or bar, it was hot cocoa! In ancient times, hot cocoa was a luxurious drink enjoyed mainly by royalty, long before it became a popular beverage today.
7. Africa is the Largest Cocoa Supplier
Did you know Africa supplies about 70% of the world’s cocoa beans? The continent is known for producing high-quality beans with a mild flavor, making it a leading source for chocolate production.
SURPRISING Facts about Chocolate
Video by Talltanic
