Articles on chocolate

Chocolate has a long and rich history that began over 3,000 years ago in Central and South America. The ancient Maya and Aztec civilizations were the first to cultivate cacao trees and turn cacao beans into a bitter chocolate drink, which they believed was a gift from the gods.

The word "chocolate" comes from the Aztec word xocolatl, meaning "bitter water." It wasn’t sweet at all — it was often mixed with chili peppers and spices. Spanish explorers brought cacao back to Europe in the 1500s, where sugar and milk were added, creating the sweet treat we enjoy today.

By the 1800s, chocolate became more affordable and popular. Companies like Cadbury, Nestlé, and Hershey made chocolate bars that are still famous. Today, chocolate is a global delight, used in candies, desserts, drinks, and even beauty products.