Many people around the world share one common sin: chocolate. Appreciated for its exquisite flavor that delights the taste buds, it often provides a feeling of calm. Besides its taste quality, when this ingredient is rich in cocoa, it turns out to be full of virtues for the organism. Indeed, nutritionists know that dark chocolate is full of antioxidants, magnesium, potassium and phosphorus. But to fully enjoy it, you still need to know how to keep it. To shed some light on the subject, the British media Métro asked for the opinion of a renowned confectionery company.
Cadbury is a company headquartered in the United Kingdom. Known for its famous chocolates, chewing gum and pastilles, the company has become internationally known. Today, the multinational established in Australia has been involved in a debate on social networks. The subject ? The optimal storage method for chocolate.
How chocolate is stored: a controversial subject
Many people prefer to place their chocolate bars in the refrigerator to taste them cold. However, Bruno Bouchet, a surfer residing in Australia, made the buzz through a particular Tweet. The man published a photograph showing some foods that need to be kept in the fridge, and some that can be put in the cupboard. Foods stored at room temperature include eggs, avocado, tomato, soy sauce, wine and ... chocolate. In the picture, the latter product belongs to the Cadbury brand, which was quick to react.
Indeed, its publication was not unanimous since several Internet users reacted by contesting his allegations. To end the debate, Cadbury responded to Bruno on Twitter.
“Hello Bruno. Chocolate should always be stored in a slightly cool, dry, dark place such as a pantry or cupboard, below 21 degrees Celsius so as not to compromise its quality, "the company said in a Tweet.
Despite the information that the company specializing in the subject conveyed, some Internet users were not convinced by this method of conservation.
"I prefer that my chocolate be stored in the refrigerator," said one user. "Show me a place in Australia where the temperature is below 21 degrees," said another Twitter user. For some, the optimal way to store chocolate would depend on the air temperature. “In winter it goes in the closet and in summer it should be in the fridge. However, other netizens shared Bruno's opinion, insisting that the refrigerator alters the taste of the product.
In addition, Laurent Laloux, director of the laboratory of the National Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health Safety (ANSES), provided some answers to the media L’express. For the specialist, chocolate can be stored in a cupboard or in the refrigerator, depending on consumer preferences. However, "humidity and light degrade the organoleptic qualities of chocolate". Therefore, it is best to store it at room temperature, in a cupboard, away from light.
The health benefits of chocolate
Contrary to popular belief, chocolate can be consumed as part of a healthy and balanced diet. The greediest have something to be happy about: you no longer need to wait for Easter to give you this unique moment of pleasure. However, not all chocolates are created equal since the cocoa content is an essential criterion to take into account. To take care of your body, it is advisable to opt for a chocolate with more than 70% cocoa. According to the French Cardiology Federation, dark chocolate rich in flavonols, antioxidants that take care of the heart by reducing blood pressure and improving insulin sensitivity. In addition, this succulent dish has the advantage of reducing bad cholesterol and fighting clogged arteries.
In addition, dark chocolate contains a high content of magnesium, a mineral known to be effective in reducing stress and boosting energy. In addition, a study published in the scientific journal Frontiers and Nutrition indicates that chocolate has positive effects on cognition since it promotes attention and memory. So many advantages that should encourage us to eat it regularly! However, despite all the qualities attributed to this product, it is necessary to consume it in moderation. According to Hervé Robert, nutritionist, 10 grams of chocolate, or two squares per day, are enough to take advantage of its health benefits.