Dark Chocolate: Benefits and Uses

Dark chocolate is made from cocoa solids and cocoa butter, with little to no added sugar. It is known for its rich flavor and potential health benefits.
Category
Food
Where to get
Dark chocolate is widely available in supermarkets, specialty stores, and online.
Applicable for
Antioxidant
Yes
Mood improvement
Yes
Prepared by Lee Cheng, reviewed by Dr. Helena Rodriguez

Dark Chocolate FAQ


Image credit: mooringspark.org

Why is dark chocolate called dark chocolate?

As a consequence, the term dark chocolate was coined to distinguish the traditional chocolate from the new form. In the late 20th century, demand for dark chocolate increased. Nutrients in dark chocolate include 46% carbohydrates, 43% fats, 8% protein, and 1% water (table).

What is dark chocolate made of?

Dark chocolate is made with various amounts of cocoa liquor, cocoa butter, and cocoa powder. Cocoa beans have over 300 chemical plant compounds, which benefit overall health. Polyphenols (plant compounds that act as antioxidants) include phenolic acids, stilbenes, flavonol and flavan-3-ols, anthocyanins, and procyanidins.

What is dark chocolate used for?

As with the other two main types of chocolate ( milk and white ), dark chocolate is used for chocolate bars or as a coating in confectionery. Government and industry standards of what products may be labeled "dark chocolate" vary by country and market. Chocolate is made from the seeds of the tropical Theobroma cacao tree.

Where does dark chocolate come from?

Chocolate products, including dark chocolate, are derived from the beans of the Theobroma cacao tree, also known as the cacao or cocoa tree. Dark chocolate contains a higher percentage of cocoa than milk or semi-sweet chocolate, though the percentage varies depending on the type of dark chocolate purchased.

Dark Chocolate References

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