Chocolate is the answer. Who cares what the question is

on

A quality dark chocolate is considered a superfood because the cacao it's made from is rich in antioxidants and beneficial nutrients like magnesium, iron and flavonoids. These compounds have been linked to potential benefits for heart health, brain function, and more. However, it is important to choose dark chocolate with a high cocoa content with minimal sugar and additives to reap these benefits.  

 






This is the message from Nicolas Thoenen, a dynamic Swiss businessman whose love affair with chocolate brought him to South Africa and has led him to being affectionately known as this country’s own Willy Wonka.

Thoenen – who first came to this country as the founding CEO of Lindt & Sprüngli’s South African subsidiary – now brings the Spanish premium chocolate brand Valor into the country allowing consumers to have their chocolate and eat it too!

 

The chocolate market in South Africa, says Thoenen, is growing by up to 10% every year. There has also been a growing demand for the Valor 0% sugar chocolate bars made with natural sweeteners and which are ideal for anyone who cannot consume sugar or for those watching their weight. The Spanish company was one of the first premium sugar free chocolate manufacturers in the world and ensures that there is no compromise in taste and aroma.

 

The global sugar-free chocolate market is projected to grow from its estimated value of $1.52 billion in 2024 to $2.72 billion by 2035, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.43% from 2025 to 2035. 

 

This, Thoenen believes, is due to a growing health consciousness: “It is estimated that 84% of consumers have reduced their sugar intake in the past year and seek alternatives to quality dark chocolate that offers a ‘guilt-free’ indulgence.”

 

These are just some of chocolates benefits:

 

  • Antioxidant-rich: Cacao is packed with antioxidants, especially flavonoids, which protect cells from damage. Some studies suggest it contains more antioxidants than green tea or red wine.
  • Heart health: The flavonoids in dark chocolate can improve blood flow, lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. It may also help improve cholesterol levels. 
  • Brain function: The flavonoids in dark chocolate can also improve blood flow to the brain and may enhance memory and cognitive function. It also contains natural stimulants like caffeine and theobromine.
  • Nutrient-dense: It is a good source of minerals such as magnesium, iron, copper and manganese.
  • Mood-boosting: It contains compounds that trigger neurotransmitters associated with mood elevation, like serotonin and dopamine.
  • Gut health: Cocoa is also a probiotic, a type of fibre that your gut bacteria digest.

 

Says Thoenen: “We all know that dark chocolate is a treat for the tastebuds. The good news is that moderate amounts of minimally processed high quality dark chocolate is also good for your health.”


Comments

Post a Comment