Pure chocolate is a delicious and responsible choice for chocolate lovers. Not only does it have an intense flavour, it also offers numerous health benefits. The higher the cocoa percentage, the purer the chocolate and the healthier the treat. Discover everything you need to know about dark chocolate and choose the best quality at Foods & Goods.
Why choose dark chocolate?
Dark chocolate is a versatile and healthy option for those looking for a tasty yet responsible snack. Chocolate with at least 70% cocoa contains less sugar and more of the beneficial compounds naturally present in cocoa, such as antioxidants and flavonoids. These compounds help protect your body from free radicals and support a healthy heart and circulation.
Health benefits of dark chocolate:
- High in unsaturated fats: Good for the heart and cholesterol.
- Low in carbohydrates: Suitable for people watching their carb intake.
- Rich in antioxidants and flavonoids: Protects against damage from free radicals.
- Stimulates endorphins: Boosts your sense of wellbeing and helps relaxation.
Dark chocolate is classified by cocoa percentage. The higher the percentage, the more intense and full-bodied the chocolate’s flavour. Choosing a higher cocoa percentage affects both taste and health benefits.
- 70% cocoa: The classic choice for a balance between taste and health.
- 80% cocoa: More intense and with less sugar.
- 100% cocoa: For true dark chocolate lovers, with a powerful and bitter taste.
Dark chocolate: healthy and tasty
It has been proven that dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa is beneficial for health. It not only supports your heart and circulation but also contributes to a better mood by stimulating endorphins in the brain. The antioxidants in cocoa protect your body from ageing and damage caused by free radicals.
Tips for enjoying dark chocolate:
- Start with a 70% chocolate if you are not used to the bitter taste yet.
- Enjoy a small square per day (about 10 grams) for the health benefits.
How is dark chocolate made?
Making dark chocolate begins with harvesting cocoa beans from the cocoa fruit. After harvesting, the beans are fermented and dried, then roasted. The beans are then ground into cocoa mass, which is separated into cocoa butter and cocoa powder. The cocoa butter is mixed back with the cocoa mass to make dark chocolate, without adding milk powder as used in milk chocolate.
Our favourite dark chocolate products
- Cote D’or Dark Chocolate Bar with Hazelnuts (32x 45gr): A delicious dark chocolate bar with hazelnuts for the true chocolate lover. Perfect on the go, as a snack or with coffee. Order by the box of 32 bars at Foods & Goods.
- Tony’s Chocolonely Dark Chocolate Bar 70% (15x 180gr): For true dark chocolate fans. This Tony’s Chocolonely bar contains at least 70% cocoa and is ideal as a snack, in baking recipes or as a gift. Available per box of 15 bars of 180 grams.
- Côte D’or Chokotoff Dark (15x 250gr): Enjoy the delightful combination of toffee and dark chocolate. This luxury treat is perfect for sharing or for special occasions. Available per box of 15 x 250 grams.
Frequently asked questions about dark chocolate
1. What is the best cocoa percentage for dark chocolate?
A cocoa content of 70% or higher is often regarded as best for both taste and health benefits. The higher the percentage, the less sugar the chocolate contains and the more antioxidants and flavonoids are present.
2. What are the health benefits of dark chocolate?
Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that protect the body from free radicals. It can lower blood pressure, improve cholesterol and lift the mood by increasing endorphin production.
3. Is dark chocolate suitable for people watching their sugar intake?
Yes, dark chocolate contains less sugar than milk chocolate, especially if you choose varieties with a higher cocoa content, such as 70% or 80%.
4. How should I store dark chocolate?
Store dark chocolate in a cool, dry place away from sunlight and strong odours. It is also important to keep chocolate at a constant temperature so the texture does not change.
5. Can I use dark chocolate in recipes?
Yes, dark chocolate is excellent for baking recipes, desserts and even savoury dishes. Choose a chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for the best flavour and texture.
Order Dark Chocolate at Foods & Goods
At Foods & Goods you’ll find a wide range of the best dark chocolate, from classic 70% cocoa to 100% pure chocolate for true connoisseurs. Our chocolate is carefully selected to offer you the highest quality so you can enjoy a responsible and delicious treat.
