What is internationally renowned, rich with a flavorful history and desired by countless individuals 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?Out-marketing the Swiss, will be nearly impossible when it comes to chocolate.
From Swiss cookbooks to well-known chocolate treats, it seems everyone has heard of delicious Swiss chocolates.The Chocolate of Switzerland has made its mark on the world with it’s affluent history. 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, Swiss chocolate began to spread abroad toward the last part of the 19th century. 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 after, the creation of Milk chocolate followed from chocolate specialist 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 line of work involving Chocolate making is taken serious by the Swiss and others involved.
Not surprisingly though, the majority of chocolate originating from Switzerland is consumed by the Swiss themselves.It shouldn’t come as a surprise that Switzerland has the highest consuption rate per capita in the world when it comes to chocolate; 11.6 kg 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’s best know for it’s amazing 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.
Overall, Swiss chocolate stands above the rest in the manufacturing of chocolate.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.
