Chocolate - Not Just for Girls, Anymore

If you have ever seen television commercials around Valentine’s Day, you will know that a woman’s heart can be opened by two things – flowers and chocolate. It is true that many women do love chocolate, and it can often make a good gift. However, chocolate has become much more than a woman’s guilty pleasure – it has become one of the more popular and evolved food products in the world.

How has this delicious treat – which originates from a cocoa bean – changed over the years? Let’s take a quick look through its evolution… 

From the Trees of Mesoamerica to the Food Lover’s Plate

The exact origin of the cacoa bean is a source of debate for historians. According to the Foundation for the Advancement of Mesoamerican Studies, Inc., proof of chocolate consumption can be traced back to the the Early Formative (1900-900 BC) period in Mexico. It was Christopher Columbus’ “discovery” and introduction of chocolate to Spanish society in the 16^th century that helped bring this bean to the forefront of European food culture.

Over the centuries, chocolate has grown in popularity and diversity, and is now produced in every corner of the world. As of 2011, Barry Callebaut, a Swiss company, is the largest producer of chocolate.

The Evolving Dessert

You don’t get named “the new coffee” (Datamonitor, 2006) by being boring. Chocolate has gradually transcended its milk vs. dark reputation of the past to offer consumers a wide spectrum of flavors and variations.

Bacon and beer chocolate anyone? New chocolates range from basic truffles (e.g., caramel, hazelnut and liqueur fillings) to exotic and sometimes bizarre (e.g., bars and truffles with chili, ginger and other spices) treats. Chocolate also can: be consumed as a drink; be used as a rub on meat; and can even be a type of beer. What does this mean? Chocolate is not only for the diehard chocoholics, it now attracts a broader audience – even men.

What?! It’s Good for You?

Yes, that’s right. Chocolate does have some health benefits. It is not advised that you go out and eat a kilo of it, but in the correct form and in moderation, consumption of dark chocolate can be associated with lower levels of C-reactive protein, an indicator for inflammation. Chocolate also can improve blood flow through the arteries that supply both the heart and the brain, according to Harvard University.

Beware, though – chocolate is also a natural source of caffeine. According to WebMD, in excess, caffeine can cause anxiety, sleep problems, among other side effects. Chocolate is also high in calories and can contribute to weight gain, so enjoy it as a treat – and in moderation.

Are you convinced yet? Chocolate is more than what you might have thought it was. Yes, it’s a great gift for a friend, partner or spouse, but it’s also a useful culinary tool that can be repurposed for everyone’s enjoyment.