Origins of Chocolate
The origins of chocolate can be traced back to pre-Columbian cultures living in Mexico and Central America. The word "chocolate" comes from the Classical Nahuatl word xocolātl, meaning bitter (xoco) water (atl), and entered the English language via the Spanish chocolate.
These ancient civilizations were the first to discover the cacao tree and use the beans of the plant to make a bitter drink known as “xocolatl.” The beverage was widely consumed by the Maya, Aztec, and other indigenous peoples, and was believed to have medicinal and spiritual properties.
Development of Chocolate
It wasn’t until the mid-1700s that chocolate was developed into a solid form as we know it today. During the early 19th century, the use of milk in chocolate became more widespread. In 1828, the Dutch inventor Coenraad van Houten invented the Cocoa Press that improved the quality of the beverage by squeezing out part of the cocoa butter, creating cocoa powder. In 1847, the English Quaker Joseph Fry invented the first chocolate bar.
Introduction of Milk Chocolate
In 1875, Swiss chocolatier Daniel Peter discovered a method to incorporate condensed milk into chocolate, creating a smoother and sweeter version called milk chocolate. Familiar names like Lindt, Cadburys, Mars, and Nestle emerged with a solid product that contained varying quantities of milk. In the 1870s, German-born Henri Nestle was the first to mass produce milk chocolate from his premises in Switzerland.
Chocolate in the 20th Century
As the 20th century unfolded, the chocolate industry experienced tremendous growth. In 1936, white chocolate was invented by accident when Nestlé combined milk powder with cocoa butter to produce the first white chocolate bar, Milkybar.
Power of Chocolate
Regardless of the reason, chocolate is among the most favored candies in the world. It’s a delectable treat that carries endless benefits. People believe that chocolate has the power to uplift the spirit and spread joy.