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What do you know about the history of chocolate? Surely you have already tried all varieties You have fallen in love with its flavour in all its versions, but... do you know its origin?

At AlterNativa3, we love curiosities! That's why we're going to take a look at some of the most relevant milestones of this delicious delicacy.

The origin of the history of chocolate

As you can imagine, it is difficult to know exactly where chocolate comes from. Some archaeologists have found remains from 1100 BC to 800 BC that would indicate Honduras as the place of origin. It is believed that the pods were fermented from cocoa for brewing beer, although the seeds were discarded because of their bitter taste. Later, the seeds would have been used to make a non-alcoholic sparkling beverage consumed on special occasions.

Other sources suggest that cocoa was considered, in pre-Columbian times, a food of the gods. It was reserved for the elite and, in fact, its consumption was forbidden for poor people. Mayas and Aztecs They even incorporated cocoa into their mythology and, in fact, the seeds became an important currency.

Arrival in Europe and the evolution of chocolate to the present day

Columbus had already received cocoa seeds as an offering, and it was Hernán Cortés who sent them to Spain. From here, spread to the rest of Europe and popularising in different countries. However, don't think that we are talking about the popular chocolate bar. At that time, fermented cocoa beans were used to make a drink to which, in addition, interesting properties were attributed. In Europe, to adapt it to the tastes of society, the spices used in America were replaced by milk, honey and sugar.

The leap to France and other countries was only a matter of time. What is not clear is where the first chocolate bars were produced. However, we can say that chocolate and chocolates were already in existence in the middle of the 19th century. Milk chocolate, however, is attributed to Switzerland in 1875.

The Industrial Revolution also played an important role in the production of chocolate. The changes that took place in this respect led to chocolate being produced in large quantities - sometimes, of course, to the detriment of quality.

And now?

Interestingly, this is something we are beginning to reverse today. We are slowly returning to a sustainable and sustainable philosophy. "bean to bar. A philosophy that makes us rely on cooperatives that guarantee a careful production, even if in smaller quantities.

The trend seems to be to go back to the beginning of chocolate's history, when it was a delicacy. What about you? Which variety do you prefer?

Do you know the many benefits of cocoa? Beyond its incredible taste, in all its versions, the truth is that it has numerous advantages for your health. In this article we want to tell you about them.

What are the main health benefits of cocoa?

The truth is that today cocoa is considered a superfoodand there is no shortage of reasons for this. Let's take a look at some of the many benefits it has for your health.

It is antioxidant

Due to its components - such as flavonoids, catechins and polyphenols - it prevents cell damage. As a result, it helps to reduce the likelihood of diseases resulting from oxidative stress.

It is neuroprotective

This is due to its flavonoid content. It improves memory and learning capacity. In fact, it can even prevent neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's disease.

Good for cardiovascular health

It improves blood flow and therefore also reduces blood pressure. It also reduces the build-up of cholesterol, thus also preventing cardiovascular diseases such as arteriosclerosis, which is the narrowing and stiffening of the arteries.

It is beneficial for the skin

It helps to moisturise your skin and is also a natural photoprotector. In this way, it protects your skin from sun damage.

It is useful for preventing diabetes

It makes your body improve glucose metabolism and insulin resistance. Therefore, it is a food that plays a role in the prevention of diabetes.

Get your hands on our pure cocoa with superfoods

You have already seen the many health benefits of cocoa. But why not enrich it with other, equally beneficial foods? Chai, maca and ginger or orange and cinnamon - take your pick!

Remember that until 25 October you can buy them with a 5 % discount or 15 % if you buy a pack of three. See for yourself the many benefits of the cocoa.