Why Swiss Chocolate is So Good

by Gregory Lightstone on June 16, 2009

What is known around the world, rich with afluent history and strongly wanted by countless people around the world?  The answer is chocolate, of course.  Associated with everything from love to holidays, chocolate has been a steadfast commodity in cultures around the world for centuries.  It is arguably the most marketable product around the world, but as is true of any popular article of trade, the chocolate business is a highly competitive market.When it comes to chocolate, only the best reach the top, so who is the cream of the crop?Well, you may never find a competitor that can beat the Swiss.

From Swiss cookbooks to well-known chocolate treats, it seems everyone has heard of delicious Swiss chocolates.  Chocolate originating from Switzerland has made its mark on the world and has an affluent history to prove it.  Chocolate made its way to Europe in the 10th Century, and by the 17th Century it was being produced in Switzerland.In the 19th and 20th Century numerous chocolate factories came into being; Nestle, Toblerone and Lindt to name a few.  As well, during the latter half of the 19th Century, Swiss chocolate began to spread abroad.  From the 19th Century until World War I, and throughout World War II, the Swiss chocolate industry became very export oriented and eventually production became outsourced.Soon following was the creation of Milk Chocolate by chocolate lover Daniel Peter.  In 1901 chocolate producers in Switzerland formed the Union libre des fabricants suisses de chocolate.  Come 1916, this union divided into two separate organizations:  Chambre Syndicale des fabricants suisses de chocolate, and the Convention Chocolate Suisse.The chocolate makers of Switzerland and those involved have taken their work very serious.

Not surprisingly though, the majority of chocolate originating from Switzerland is consumed by the Swiss themselves.  Switzerland has the highest chocolate consumption rate per capita in the world; 11.Six kilograms consumed per capita each year.  Clearly the Swiss know a good thing when they have it!  This does not, however, deter the rest of the international world from indulging ourselves.  The Swiss chocolate industry is an incredibly popular tourism attraction; the chocolate itself most often ends up traveling to alternate countries as gifts for friends and family.  Why is Swiss chocolate so desired?  Likely because it is known for is outstanding quality.  The high content of rich cocoa butter creates a delectable creamy and smooth texture; thus, the high standards of manufacturing keep this Swiss commodity ahead of the competition.  Popular Swiss brands you may recognize include Nestlé (the largest chocolate manufacturer in Switzerland), Lindt, Sprungli (bakery stores across Switzerland) and Suchard.  Of course, there are also many other exclusive chocolate manufacturers across Switzerland, however you may have to make the trip yourself to steal a taste.

All in all, there is no doubt that Swiss chocolate hangs above the rest when it comes to chocolate manufacturing.For reasons that are obvious, you should indulge yourself to a treat of Swiss Choclate, I highly recommend it.  Leaf through a Swiss cookbook and choose a chocolaty recipe that sounds the most delicious; or head down to the store and grab a pre-wrapped treat.It’s up to you how you indulge, so imply just indulge.You will not be let down.

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