From Aztec aphrodisiac to modern treat: The sweet history of chocolate

The earliest evidence of chocolate consumption comes from ancient Mesoamerica, where the Mayan and Aztec civilizations cultivated cocoa trees and used the beans to make a bitter drink.

The Aztecs, who lived in what is now Mexico, considered chocolate to be a sacred and valuable substance.

They used chocolate in a variety of ways, including as a currency, a medicine, and a drink.

Cocoa beans, which were used to make chocolate, were so valuable that they were often used as a form of currency.

Merchants would trade cocoa beans for goods such as food, clothing, and even slaves.

It was not uncommon for Aztec rulers to require tribute payments of cocoa beans from conquered territories.

The Aztecs also believed that chocolate had medicinal properties and used it to treat a variety of ailments, including fever and fatigue.

They believed that chocolate was a natural stimulant and aphrodisiac.

But perhaps the most well-known use of chocolate by the Aztecs was as a drink.

The Aztecs would grind cocoa beans into a paste and mix it with water, chili peppers, and other spices to create a frothy, bitter drink called xocolatl.

This drink was reserved for the elite members of society, such as priests, warriors, and nobles.

The Aztecs believed that xocolatl had both physical and spiritual benefits.

It was said to give warriors strength and energy before battle, and it was also used in religious ceremonies as an offering to the gods.

When the Spanish conquistadors arrived in Central America in the 16th century, they were introduced to chocolate and brought it back to Europe.

At first, it was primarily consumed as a drink, but it quickly became popular throughout the continent.

In the 18th century, chocolate began to be processed in new ways, leading to the creation of solid chocolate bars.

The development of machines for grinding and pressing cocoa beans made chocolate more affordable and accessible, and it soon became a popular treat for people of all social classes.

The industrialization of chocolate production in the 19th century led to the creation of new varieties and flavors.

Milk chocolate, which combines cocoa solids with milk powder or condensed milk, was invented in Switzerland in the late 1800s and quickly became a favorite.

Cadbury and Hershey's are two well-known chocolate brands that have played a significant role in the history and development of chocolate.

Cadbury was founded in 1824 in Birmingham, England by John Cadbury. Initially, Cadbury sold tea, coffee, and drinking chocolate, but later shifted its focus solely to chocolate production.

The company developed a reputation for high-quality, dairy-based chocolate and became a household name in the UK.

In 1866, Cadbury introduced a new type of chocolate, which used a higher proportion of cocoa butter and less cocoa solids. This created a smoother, creamier texture that was popular with consumers.

Cadbury continued to innovate, introducing new products such as Dairy Milk chocolate in 1905.

Hershey's was founded in 1894 by Milton Hershey in Pennsylvania, USA. Hershey's was known for its milk chocolate, which was made with fresh milk from local dairy farms.

The company became famous for its Hershey's Kisses, which were first introduced in 1907, and its chocolate bars, which were sold to soldiers during World War II.

Both Cadbury and Hershey's have become global brands, with products sold in many countries around the world. 

Today, chocolate is consumed all over the world in a variety of forms, from chocolate bars to hot cocoa to truffles and beyond.

It has also become an important part of many cultures and traditions, with events like Valentine's Day and Easter often featuring chocolate treats.

But chocolate production also has a dark side. In the 21st century, concerns have been raised about the exploitation of cocoa farmers and child labor in cocoa production.

Efforts are being made to address these issues, with many chocolate companies committing to fair trade practices and sustainability initiatives.

Despite the challenges, chocolate remains a beloved treat for many people around the world, and its rich history continues to be celebrated and enjoyed.