Chocolate is a beloved treat enjoyed by people all over the world. However, there are many interesting facts about this decadent delicacy that people may not know. I thought it might be interesting to do a bit of a deep dive into everybody’s favorite sweet treat. I hope you enjoy these factoids and learn a thing or two about chocolate that you didn’t know.
Fun Facts About Chocolate
- Chocolate comes from a fruit
Chocolate comes from the cacao tree, which produces a fruit called the cacao pod. Inside the pod are cacao beans, which are used to make chocolate.
- White chocolate isn’t really chocolate
White chocolate may look like chocolate, but it doesn’t contain any cocoa solids. Instead, it is made from cocoa butter, sugar, and milk.
- Chocolate was once used as currency
In ancient Mayan and Aztec cultures, cacao beans were used as currency. It was even said that 100 cacao beans could buy a slave.
- Chocolate can be good for your health
Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that can help protect against heart disease and stroke. However, it’s important to eat it in moderation as it is still high in calories.
- The world’s largest chocolate bar weighed over 12,000 pounds
In 2011, a chocolate bar weighing over 12,000 pounds was created in Armenia. It was over 18 feet long and 9 feet wide.
- Chocolate was once used as medicine
In the 16th century, chocolate was believed to have medicinal properties and was used to treat a variety of ailments.
- Milk chocolate was invented by a Swiss chocolatier
Daniel Peter, a Swiss chocolatier, invented milk chocolate in 1875. He added condensed milk to the chocolate to make it smoother and creamier.
- The Aztecs believed chocolate had magical powers
The Aztecs believed that chocolate had magical powers and was associated with the goddess of fertility.
- Chocolate can be toxic to dogs
Chocolate contains a chemical called theobromine, which can be toxic to dogs. It can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and even death in severe cases.
- The first chocolate bar was created in 1847
The first chocolate bar was created by Joseph Fry in 1847. He mixed cocoa powder and sugar with melted cocoa butter to create a solid bar of chocolate.
So there you go, chocolate is much more than just a delicious treat and you now know 10 more things about it than you did 10 minutes ago.
From its ancient origins as a currency and medicine to its modern-day health benefits, there are many fascinating facts about this beloved food. So the next time you indulge in a chocolate bar or a rich, creamy hot chocolate, remember these 10 things you didn’t know about chocolate.