WORLD CHOCOLATE DAY – 7th July 2024
This Sunday, 7th July, marks World Chocolate Day! In our book, it’s a no-brainer to celebrate the occasion. First, grab a bar of your favourite chocolatey treat. Then, find a cosy spot, settle down and indulge in both taste and knowledge. Did you know that the aroma of chocolate plays a crucial role in its appeal? Enjoy these interesting facts about the connection between chocolate and its scent.
THE CONNECTION BETWEEN CHOCOLATE AND SCENT
Scent Psychology
Smell is closely linked with emotions and memories. The scent of chocolate is a mood enhancer, associated with pleasure and reward.
Fermentation
During the fermentation process, aromatic compounds are released. They contribute to the overall chocolate scent.
Complex Aroma Profile
The smell of chocolate is made up of more than 600 volatile compounds (VOCs). For example, pyrazines give a nutty scent, while aldehydes add sweet, floral notes.
Chocolate in Aromatherapy
Chocolate is sometimes used in aromatherapy products due to its mood-enhancing scent. For example, candles and lotions.
Complementary Aroma Profiles
Pairing chocolate with other foods, such as wine or coffee, can enhance the tasting experience.
Different Scents
Just as the taste of chocolate differs, so does the scent. Dark chocolate smells rich and intense, milk chocolate is sweet and creamy, and white chocolate is vanilla and milky.
Sensory Evaluation
Professional chocolate tasters assess the aroma of chocolate during production to achieve the highest quality.
Artificial Chocolate Scent
Some products use synthetic chocolate fragrances. However, it's difficult to match the authentic smell of real chocolate.
Roasting Cocoa Beans
Roasting cocoa beans produces complex flavours and aromas. It's known as the Maillard reaction and produces caramel, nutted and roasted scents.
ASK AN ODOUR EXPERT
At Silsoe Odours, we’re the experts in odour. We don’t normally venture into chocolate (although not completely unheard of). However, we are incredibly well-versed in all kinds of different industries. If you have an odour challenge or query, please get in touch. You can reach us on 01525 860222, info@silsoeodours.co.uk and on our website. Or, you can follow us on social media. You’ll find us on LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook.
