History of Chocolate

History of Chocolate

• Chocolate Day is celebrated on July 7 to commemorate its introduction in Europe in 1550 and to show appreciation for the delicious treat.
• The first World Chocolate Day was celebrated in 2009.

Origins of Chocolate

• The Aztecs, a Mesoamerican civilization, are believed to have been the first to cultivate and consume cocoa beans in South America.
• The Aztecs and Mayans used cocoa beans as money to pay for food, taxes, and clothes, as well as gifts.

Interesting Facts

• Cocoa beans grow inside cocoa pods, which are fruits of the tree.
• The term "Theobroma Cacao" means "Food of Gods".
• Chocolate actually gives off energy and a warm, comforting feeling.

Chocolate Brands and Innovations

• "Chocolate Amatller" is considered Europe's oldest chocolate brand, established in 1797 in Barcelona, Spain.
• Joseph Fry introduced the first chocolate bar in 1847 and established the first chocolate factory in 1728.
• Cadbury is a British brand that has been producing chocolate since 1824 and introduced dairy milk chocolate to the world in 1905.

Chocolate Consumption and Production

• Switzerland has the highest consumption of chocolate in the world.
• In India, cocoa plantations are mainly concentrated in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala.
• Cadbury is credited with being the first company to begin contemporary chocolate production in India.

Fun Facts

• Chocolates are toxic to pets like dogs and cats.
• Dark chocolate is considered the healthiest type of chocolate.
• Hershey's Kisses were originally in the shape of flat discs.
• During World War II, the British army had chocolates in their rations.