As we approach the week leading up to Valentine’s Day, Chocolate Day will be celebrated on February 9th. As couples search for the best chocolate gifts to give to their loved ones, we look at some facts about chocolate and its history. Chocolate has a lengthy history, in fact some fermented beverages made from chocolate date back to 350 BC.
Of course chocolate is given as a gift all year around, there is a significant spike in February! From chocolate cakes to chocolate bouquets, everyone loves to receive a sweet treat.
Did you know…
1. Chocolate is a part of the culinary history of Spain. Cocoa beans were so important, that Spanish royalty gave chocolate in the form of cocoa cakes as dowry.
2. The scientific name of the tree that produces cocoa beans is Theobroma Cacaois. This translates as 'food of the gods'. It was named so by Swedish botanist Linnaeus.
3. According to etymologists, the origin of the word 'chocolate' comes from the Aztec word 'xocoatl' which referred to a bitter drink prepared from cacao beans.
4. Cacao trees that grow in tropical beauties can live up to 200 years. However, they produce beans for just 25 years of their lifespan.
5. Chocolate has over 600 flavour compounds, which give it the distinct aroma we recognise.
Which leaves the question: what better gift than chocolate? Even the smell of smell makes you feel relaxed, it’s science! We wish everyone a Happy Chocolate Day!