Is Chocolate Healthy?

It is common knowledge that Chocolate has long been considered a 'sweet' but not necessarily a food, and certainly not a healthy one. As a major chocolate and chocolate equipment distributor, it is noteworthy to learn that chocolate in small portions is actually considered healthy. Now we can all have our chocolate in small quantities -- without the guilt!

Since Asian Restaurant News (January 2007), came out with an article "smaller quantity and bigger taste" addressing the healthy benefits of chocolate in small quantity, we have seen a myriad of reports addressing the same. Currently, kudos to the health benefits of chocolate is limited to dark chocolate due to the beneficial properties being more concentrated with little or no sugar added.

Chocolate is consumed in many forms but per the Fine Chocolate Institute Association (2011), fine chocolate consumption continues to grow in the U.S. even though it trails European consumer consumption, in large part due to the consumption of fine chocolate versus other chocolate products. It is estimated that European's consume approximately 10 lbs. of fine chocolate annually, whereas Americans consume approximately 5 lbs.

Another avenue for chocolate consumption is via Chocolate Fountains that have become very popular with caterers, home enthusiasts, chefs, rental equipment providers, and catering sales managers around the world. Commercial chocolate fountains are often found gracing special events like wedding receptions and large charitable and corporate events. Noted for their multi-tiered stainless steel tiers that remind one of a wedding cake, warm chocolate constantly flows to create a beautiful centerpiece and decadent dessert. The newest commercial chocolate fountain, called the CF2 Cascade, allows 2 different flavors of chocolate to flow at one time. In both cases, guests dip fresh fruits and pastry items into the flowing fountains of chocolate. So, if you are looking for health benefits with your chocolate fountain, select a fine grade of chocolate which will contain high concentration of cocoa and cocoa butter, which is important to avoid thinning with oils.

Other foods cited as healthy, served in small quantities, that pack a punch when it comes to flavor, include: potatoes, nuts and butter, spices, and tea. For more information, please contact The Chocolate Fountain at thechocolatefountain.com or 316.636.4443.