Myth 1: Chocolate is high in caffeine

It’s true that fine quality chocolate may boost your energy levels, however it is not actually very high in caffeine. A typical amount of chocolate has approximately the same amount of caffeine as a cup of decaffeinated coffee.

Myth 2: Chocolate lacks any nutritional value

Chocolate is a good source of magnesium, copper, iron and zinc. It also contains polyphenols, an antioxidant found in green tea and red wine, which has been associated with a healthy heart.  Cocoa butter, the ingredient that makes good quality chocolate so silky smooth, is also packed full of essential nutrients.
Read more about the health benefits of cocoa butter.

Myth 3: Fair Trade chocolate must be better

I’m the first to support Fair Trade when it comes to giving cocoa farmers in third world countries a reasonable price for their cocoa beans, as they supply the majority of cocoa sourced by mass producers.  However, luxury, artisan chocolate is created by master chocolatiers who work closely with small, family cocoa farmers to produce the best possible beans.  This entails developing close partnerships, in which the master chocolatier invests in plantations for the long-term – not for short-term gains.  As such, these cocoa farmers are paid considerably more than the market price, to ensure they maintain the highest possible standards and bean quality.  So I recommend that, if you wish to support Fair Trade, ask the source of the ingredients, where your money goes and how it supports the farmers and their communities.

Myth 4: The darker the chocolate the better 

There are many health benefits to eating dark chocolate.  However, cocoa content is only a measure of quantity and not quality.  I always recommend you consider other factors such as environment, quality of the cocoa beans and the philosophy of the master chocolatier before determining whether the chocolate you are eating is really worthy of being called luxury chocolate.

Myth 5: Chocolate causes acne

It has long been accepted by researchers that there is no relationship between chocolate consumption and acne. In fact some studies have shown dark chocolate to boost your beauty with its beneficial antioxidants and sun protecting properties which nourish your skin.

Find out how chocolate can help protect your skin from sun damage.

So the next time you reach for your favourite piece of heaven and feel guilty for doing so, remember these myths – and enjoy!

Treat yourself to some exquisite fine quality chocolate with our handmade, luxury chocolate assortments, or call us on 0121 314 3472 to place a telephone order.