Chocolate 101

Discover the history of chocolate production, from ancient Mesoamerican civilizations to modern-day artisanal chocolatiers and the benefits of high-quality chocolate.

Discover the world of unique and exotic chocolate flavours and their benefits. From dark, milk, and white chocolate to single-origin, to experimenting with unusual ingredients, explore different types of chocolate and how they can be used in baking and cooking. Find your next favourite chocolate maker or chocolatier and learn how chocolate can improve your mood and even your health.

Discover the differences between fair trade, direct trade, and transparent trade chocolate, and learn how they impact cocoa farmers and producers. Explore the benefits of fair trade programs for creating more sustainable and ethical livelihoods, and compare them to direct trade relationships between farmers and buyers. At Soul Chocolate, we prioritize direct trade to ensure fair prices and quality improvement resources for farmers and producers. Join us in creating a more ethical and sustainable chocolate industry.

Heavy metals, such as lead and cadmium, found in popular chocolate brands have raised concerns among consumers. The absorption of these metals by cacao from the soil and air is the main source of contamination. While the FDA and CFIA set limits, all cacao contains some amount of heavy metals. Reputable producers, like those who source from Meridian Cacao and Uncommon Cacao, conduct yearly lab tests to ensure their cacao meets safe levels. Consumers can enjoy chocolate without worry by supporting sustainable practices and choosing products that meet government guidelines.

Burnt chocolate can be a frustrating experience for any chocolate lover. It can turn your delicious and indulgent dessert into a bitter, smoky mess. However, the good news is that burnt chocolate doesn't have to be the end of the world. With a few tricks and tips, you can still salvage your dish and enjoy a tasty chocolate treat.

We've all been there - you pick up one of your favourite chocolate bars (mouth salivating), tear open the wrapper (stomach grumbling) in excitement to enjoy that perfectly tempered, shiny chocolate. Instead, you are presented with a white, dull, and quite honestly weird looking lump of chocolate.

What happened? Well, there are a few different scenarios that we're likely to play out. Let me discuss each and how to spot one from another.

Cocoa butter is an instrumental part of chocolate, be it specialty or industrial. Learn about how it's made, what makes it special, and how it's used in the chocolate industry.

Cocoa vs Cacao - are they even different? Let's learn what makes them unique and when to use one term over another.

Learn the differences between natural and alkalized cocoa powder - both visual and textural, and how to use them in your baked goods.

What is Dark Chocolate? What makes dark chocolate dark? Is it even good for you? Learn a little more about this delicious treat.

What is Milk Chocolate? Here we take a dive into what makes milk chocolate, well, milk chocolate! And the things you can and can't do with it.

Just what is white chocolate? And is it even chocolate at all? Here you'll learn about the process and some of the terms used when dealing with white chocolate.