Chocolate Production in England

Chocolate lovers may have heard about the rising prices of chocolate. The main reason is that it's getting harder to get cocoa. England's chocolate market relies entirely on imported cocoa.

What is Cocoa?

Cocoa is the main ingredient in chocolate and comes from the fruit of the cocoa tree. Countries with warm climates are the leaders in cocoa production.

Cocoa Farming in England

Maha Khan, a food security student at the University of Reading, has made the first chocolate with 100% British ingredients in 94 years. This chocolate was made from cocoa grown in Reading, England, not from Brazil or Bali.

Chocolate Production

The chocolate is called 'Reading 100 Chocolate' and was made to celebrate the University of Reading's 100th anniversary. It's the first chocolate grown in England since 1932 that can be sold.

Cocoa Growing Center

The cocoa used for the chocolate was grown in the university's cocoa quarantine center. There are over 300 types of cocoa in the center, and the plants are carefully managed to prevent pests and diseases from spreading.

Chocolate Making Process

Maha picked the cocoa fruits, removed the pulp and beans, and then fermented them. This process took 7-10 days. Then, she dried the cocoa beans in the sun.

Climate Change and Cocoa Farming

Maha made the chocolate to highlight the problems faced by the cocoa industry. Due to climate change, pests, and diseases, 30-40% of cocoa production is lost.

Conclusion

The first chocolate made with 100% British ingredients in England aims to raise awareness about the problems faced by the cocoa industry. This project aims to catch the attention of chocolate lovers and create awareness about cocoa farming.