1. What is chocolate?

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Chocolate is a food made from the seeds of a tropical tree called the cacao.

 

2. What is the history of chocolate?

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The word "chocolate" is said to derive from the Mayan "xocolatl".The Mexican Indian word "chocolate" comes froma combination of the terms Choco ("foam") and atl ("water"); early chocolate was only consumed in beverage form.

 

3.How is chocolate made?

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Cutting of the fruit of the cacao tree, these beans are allowed to ferment and then dry. Then they are cleaned, roasted and hulled. Once the shells have been removed they are called nibs. Nibs are blended much like coffee beans, to produce different colors and flavors. Then they are ground up and the cocoa butter is released.

 

4.What has more caffeine coffee or chocolate?

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A cup of hot chocolate has 7.44 milligrams of caffeine, whereas a single cup of brewed coffee has 96 milligrams.

 

5.What storage conditions are required for chocolate?

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Always keep chocolate away from moisture and excessive heat: these are the two factors that destroy chocolate more rapidly than all others. Also, chocolate should be stored in a cool or at a constant temperature between 12 and 20°C.

 

6.What is the shelf life of chocolate?

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 Chocolate should be stored protected from exposure to oxygen, light, heat, and moisture .Dark chocolates have a shelf life of approximately 12 months, while milk and white chocolates have a shelf life of approximately 6 months. 

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7.What is tempering chocolate?

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The purpose of tempering chocolate is to pre-crystallize the cocoa butter in the chocolate, which is related to the working temperature of the chocolate.

 

8.Can I store chocolate in the fridge?

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We would advise against this to avoid the chocolate attracting moisture and spoiling.

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9.What causes chocolate to bloom?

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Sugar bloom is caused by moisture in the chocolate coating. The sugar absorbs the moisture, dissolves, and evaporates. Store your finished chocolate products at a constant temperature between 18°C and 20°C.The white stuff is just sugar or fat, it's not going to hurt you if you eat it. But the chocolate might taste a little off, since blooming affects texture.

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10.Does dark chocolate help you sleep?

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Chocolate also contains tryptophan, which stimulates serotonin and melatonin. And serotonin and melatonin are believed to help sleep.