25 Interesting Facts About Chocolate
Chocolate is one of the world’s most popular treats, loved by people of all ages and cultures. From its origins in ancient Mesoamerica to its current status as a global commodity, chocolate has a rich history and fascinating story. In this article, we’ll explore 25 interesting facts about chocolate.
1. Chocolate was originally consumed as a bitter beverage.
The ancient Maya and Aztec cultures of Mesoamerica consumed chocolate as a bitter beverage made from roasted cacao beans. They believed it had medicinal properties and used it in religious ceremonies.
2. The word “chocolate” comes from the Aztec word “xocolatl”.
The Aztecs called their bitter chocolate beverage “xocolatl”, which means “bitter water”.
3. Milk chocolate was invented in Switzerland.
Swiss chocolatier Daniel Peter invented milk chocolate in 1875 by adding condensed milk to chocolate.
4. Chocolate contains a small amount of caffeine.
Chocolate contains about 10 milligrams of caffeine per ounce, which is less than a cup of coffee.
5. Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants.
Dark chocolate contains high levels of antioxidants called flavanols, which may help protect against heart disease and other health problems.
6. Chocolate was used as currency in ancient Mesoamerica.
The Aztecs and Maya used cacao beans as currency in trade.
7. Chocolate was once reserved for the elite.
In ancient Mesoamerica, only the elite could afford to consume chocolate.
8. Chocolate can improve brain function.
Dark chocolate contains compounds that can improve blood flow to the brain, which may enhance cognitive function.
9. Chocolate is a natural mood enhancer.
Eating chocolate releases endorphins in the brain, which can improve mood and reduce stress.
10. White chocolate isn’t technically chocolate.
White chocolate is made from cocoa butter, but doesn’t contain cocoa solids, which are necessary to be considered chocolate.
11. Chocolate has been to space.
NASA sent chocolate with astronauts on space missions as a treat and morale booster.
12. Chocolate has a long shelf life.
Chocolate can last up to two years if stored properly in a cool, dry place.
13. Chocolate was believed to be an aphrodisiac.
The ancient Maya and Aztec cultures believed chocolate had aphrodisiac properties and used it to increase libido.
14. The largest chocolate bar weighed over 12,000 pounds.
The world’s largest chocolate bar was made in Italy in 2010 and weighed over 12,000 pounds.
15. Chocolate was once used as medicine.
In the 16th and 17th centuries, Europeans believed chocolate had medicinal properties and used it to treat a variety of ailments.
16. Chocolate contains theobromine.
Theobromine is a compound found in chocolate that is toxic to dogs and can cause heart problems and seizures.
17. Chocolate can improve exercise performance.
The flavanols in dark chocolate can improve blood flow to muscles, which may enhance exercise performance.
18. The first chocolate factory was established in 1765.
The first chocolate factory was established in Switzerland in 1765 by Francois-Louis Cailler.
