As the world celebrates International Chocolate Day on July 7th, here are ten intriguing facts about this beloved treat:
1. Ancient Origins: Chocolate's history dates back to the Maya civilization, where it was consumed as a bitter drink called "xocolatl," often flavored with chili.
2. European Introduction: Chocolate was first brought to Europe's shores around 1550, though some sources suggest it may have arrived earlier.
3. From Luxury to Everyday: Initially, chocolate was a luxury reserved for the wealthy. The Industrial Revolution made it widely accessible.
4. Varieties of Cocoa: There are three main varieties of cocoa beans: Criollo (the rarest), Forastero (the most common), and Trinitario (a hybrid of the two).
5. Long-lived Trees: Cocoa trees can live up to 200 years but only produce beans for about 25 of those years.
6. Food of the Gods: The scientific name for the cocoa tree, "Theobroma," literally means "food of the gods" in Latin.
7. Health Benefits: Studies have shown that dark chocolate, rich in cocoa solids, may have cardiovascular benefits and help reduce blood pressure.
8. Not for Pets: Theobromine, found in chocolate, is toxic to many animals including dogs, cats, and horses.
9. Chocolate Artistry: In English, a chocolate artisan is called a Chocolatier. In Hebrew, the Academy of the Hebrew Language approved the term "shokoladai" in 2014.
10. White Chocolate Isn't Chocolate: Technically, white chocolate isn't considered true chocolate as it contains no cocoa solids, only cocoa butter.
As chocolate lovers indulge today, these facts offer a deeper appreciation for the complex history and science behind this global favorite. From its ancient roots to modern-day production, chocolate continues to captivate both casual consumers and culinary experts alike.
* Srugim contributed to this article.
