Chocolate has long been synonymous with delight and delicious taste. When tasting it, people often close their eyes, trying to fully experience all the pleasure of sweetness. Indeed, in this product, cream, milk and cocoa are mixed in perfect proportion. And many varieties of chocolate allow confectioners to interest anyone in their products without leaving him indifferent.

Today, many brands of chocolate bars, bars, sweets and other products are produced in the world. At the same time, the 10 largest brands stand out, largely thanks to which we love chocolate.

KitKat. In 1935, the production of Rowntree's Chocolate crispy bars was launched in York, England. 4 small chocolate products were combined into one bar. In 1937, the new product was named KitKat. The product became so popular that it soon became an integral part of traditional English tea drinking. The bars themselves consisted of milk waffles covered with a layer of hot chocolate. In 1989, Rowntree was acquired by Nestle, and the KitKat brand began to actively promote in world markets. Naturally, the manufacturer did not stand still. Bars with a variety of wrappers, flavors and aromas began to appear on sale. Now you can find KitKat with strawberries and cream, mango, wild berries. For those on a diet, a special low-carb product is available. However, it turned out that consumers still prefer the classic flavor and shape of 4 bars. Crisp bars are sold annually in the world worth at least $ 300 million.

Mars. This brand is famous for its high sales all over the world, Mars bars are eaten by most people. The history of the brand and the entire company began in an ordinary American kitchen. There, Frank Mars, along with his wife, began to make inexpensive sweets. In 1911 the company was born. When the developed company opened its branch in England, the Mars bar appeared on the market. Since then, the taste of the product has been constantly changing, as have the shape and packaging. Although the ingredients themselves have remained the same, their proportions are constantly changing. The rich flavor of the bar includes nougat, almond crumbs, caramel filling, and a thick chocolate layer. Today Mars is available in several varieties

Galaxy. When it comes to chocolate flavor, it is impossible not to mention this brand. Galaxy gives a person a truly deep enjoyment. The brand is owned by Mars. This chocolate is very popular not only in England, but also in the Middle East and Africa. In many other countries we know this chocolate as Dove. This product in its varieties includes many components - milk chocolate and caramel, fruits and nuts ... The brand appeared on the market back in 1960, and since 1986 it has been owned by the Mars company. This brand not only produces chocolate bars, but also hot chocolate mix, ice cream and other sweets.

Cadbury. This brand is the best-selling of all chocolate products. Its history began back in 1824, when John Cadbury in London began his career as a pastry chef. He opened his cafe in Birmingham. Seven years later, he began to produce cocoa and hot chocolate according to his own recipes. Then in his work the main tools were a pestle and a mortar. Interestingly, John Cadbury was a lifelong member of the Temperance Society. He considered his sugary foods as a substitute for alcohol, which had destructive social functions. In 1913, his heirs significantly changed the manufactured product, making it much more porous. The pride of the company, Dary Milk milk chocolate, has been produced since 1905. Now the brand under its own name also produces cereals, milk and fruit chocolates and bars, and even crackers. Cadbury is a tasty morsel for big business, and the company recently turned down a $ 15 billion offer from Kraft.

Toblerone. The packaging of this chocolate is very unusual, because it is made in the form of a triangular prism. But even more people are attracted by the very taste of this product. The chocolate recipe was invented in 1908 by Theodor Tobler and his cousin Emil Baumann. Then it included nougat, almonds and honey, topped with chocolate. The name itself is a combination of the author's name and the Italian word torrone (a special kind of nougat). The next year, enterprising confectioners registered their brand. Why chocolate has such an unusual shape is not completely clear. Someone thinks that the triangle resembles the Matterhorn in the Alps. And some believe that Tobler was inspired by a living pyramid of variety show dancers. Even a political scandal is associated with the name of chocolate. In 1995, the Swedish politician Salin spent part of her working money, including on a couple of these sweets. The case received a lot of publicity under the name "The Toblerone Case". Salin herself left politics for a while, abandoning the fight for the post-prime minister. Today chocolate comes in a variety of flavors - plain, white, fruit with nuts, and honey.

Patchi. Using the finest cocoa and hot chocolate, Lebanese confectioners have created a new variety for true gourmets. The company was founded in 1974 by Nizar. She immediately decided that it was necessary to make not only tasty things, but also to clothe them in exquisite and magnificent packaging. Patchi was originally positioned as a luxury item for the wealthiest people. Today, chocolates are produced in a mixed Belgian-Swiss style. The brand is represented in 140 stores in 35 countries of the world. Sweets are famous for their decorations. Styles and colors can be tailored to suit the occasion or seasons. There are collections for holidays such as Christmas, Ramadan, Valentine's Day and so on. At the same time, natural ingredients are used in sweets - cocoa, milk powder, vanillin, roasted nuts and dried fruits. It is the Patchi brand that owns the most expensive chocolate in the world. The 49 box of chocolates sold for £ 5,000 is part of the Cream of Society premium collection.

Guylian. This famous brand of chocolate comes from Belgium. The company was founded by Guy Faubert. The name of the new product was given from a combination of the words Guy and Lillian (Fobert's wife). This is perhaps the most famous chocolate in the form of sea shells today. Inside there is a delicate praline with nuts and various fillings. The symbol of the brand is the seahorse, its use is protected by copyright. The company today sells its gourmet candies in custom-designed gift boxes, and also produces bars and truffles. In 2005, Guylian entered the Guinness Book of Records for creating the largest chocolate Easter egg of all time. It was exhibited in Saint-Niklaas, Belgium. 26 confectioners of the company worked on the miracle chocolate for 8 days. The sculpture is 8 meters high and 6 meters wide. It took 1950 kilograms of chocolate to make it.

Ghirardelli. In 1852, the Italian Domingo Girardelli entered the US chocolate business. Having suffered a lot by that time from a series of financial losses and crises, he did not expect that over time the whole world would love his brand of sweets. The irresistible taste and form of "Ghirardelli" became their distinctive style. Today it is the second oldest chocolate company in the United States. At the same time, here, as in few other places, all aspects of chocolate production are controlled. Up to 40% of the cocoa beans are rejected for a truly superior product. Then the fruits are roasted and crushed to grains of 19 micrometers in diameter. Today Italian masters produce several varieties of chocolate, there are also unusual ones with a cinnamon or mint flavor. The company also produces other food products - chocolate drinks and aromatic sauces. Today the company is headquartered in the United States and ranks among the world's leading chocolate brands.

[email protected] The history of the company begins in 1845. Then Rudolph Sprangli and his son owned a pastry shop in Zurich. They decided to expand their business and start producing chocolate. Rudolph's son acquired the Lindt company in 1899 and the company received its current name. However, the company is constantly developing, for example, in 1994 the Austrian chocolate factory was acquired, and in 1997 and 1998 - the Italian and American ones. The brand offers one of the most unique chocolate flavors. The Swiss were able to bring a piece of art to confectionery. The brand has remained the benchmark for what milk chocolate should be for many years. In addition, the Swiss produce varieties of it. There is a collection with dried fruits, styles of decoration and methods of filling differ. After all, chocolate should be perfectly smooth. The company has 6 factories around the world. The brand was made famous by their golden Bunny rabbits. These Easter Chocolates have been on sale every Easter since 1952. Moreover, each rabbit has a cute ribbon tied around its neck. In assortment [email protected] a variety of products: black and white chocolate with toffee, caramel, coffee, vanilla, pistachio, tangerine, cherry and many other flavors.

Ferrero Rocher. And in the end, we will leave, as it should be, the most delicious. Ferrero Rocher are large chocolates created by Italian confectioners that have conquered the world. This treat is a whole hazelnut covered with milk chocolate, surrounded by a Nutella filling and enclosed in a nutshell. Based on this candy, the brand has created several more masterpieces - with lemon, forest year, pistachio, almond and hazelnut flavors. Well, our most popular delicacy is "Raffaello", where almonds took the place of a nut, and the essence of the candy remained the same. The candy has been in production since 1982, each containing 73 calories. The wrappers are usually gilded or silver in color, demonstrating the elegance and luxury of such a dish.

There is something about putting something rich in taste, sweet, creamy in your mouth and be instantly delighted. Most people are very fond of sweets and cannot imagine life without chocolates or sweets. With such a strong attachment to sweets, confectionery manufacturers are becoming the richest in the food industry. People cannot refuse the divine taste of sweet, but they get rich. We offer an overview of the richest confectionery companies in the world.

10.Lindt (Switzerland): $ 3.15 billion

Legend has it that in 1879, during an experiment to turn hard chocolate into soft chocolate that melts in the mouth, the mixing machine at Rudolf Lindt's factory accidentally remained on over the weekend. The result was a rich, creamy chocolate that could easily be shaped into bars and became extremely popular. By 1898, Lindt sold the company's shares to another Swiss confectioner, Rudolf Sprungli, who, for 1.5 million gold francs, received the right to use the recipe, factories, the Lindt trademark and continue to produce traditional products. Thanks to the lucrative deal and collaboration between Lindt and Sprungly, the company has become the richest confectionery manufacturer in the world. The company's capital status for 2014 is estimated at $ 3.15 billion.

9. Haribo brand (Germany): $ 3.18 billion

In 1920, the German confectioner Hans Riegel created his own company, the name of which is based on the acronym derived from the name of the founder and the name of his hometown: "Hans" - "RIgel" - "BOnn". Two years later, Riegel developed a recipe for fruit gummies inspired by trained bears from a typical German circus. The "dancing bear" has become a symbol of the company and the shape of the candy we know as "gummy bears".
The candy became widespread and sold well.

In 1925, the company's success was bolstered by the introduction of licorice candies, namely the sticks, which intelligently adorned the company logo, and the wheels, which children especially loved. In 1945, Rigel dies and leaves the production to his wife Gertrude until the sons, Hans and Paul, return to Germany in 1946 from the reservist camp. In 1960, instead of the Dancing Bear, the Golden Bear became the symbol of the company. Today the firm is the leading confectioner in Germany, with an estimated capital in 2014 of $ 3.2 billion.

8. Perfetti van Melle (Italy): $ 3.28 billion

The company was founded in the Netherlands in 1841 by Isaac van Melle, a local baker from Breskens, and it was not until 1882 that the baker's son Abraham turned the bakery into a pastry shop. He not only modernized but expanded production in 1900. For 30 years, Abraham has traveled the world, studying recipes and experimenting. As a result, the company constantly updated its products, recipes and technologies. In 1932, the company launched what would later become known as “Fruitela” and “Mentos”, the company's most popular products.

In 1958, Spanish confectioner Eric Bernat, whose family company Perfetti was quite successful, thanks to revolutionary technologies presented the world with lollipops, which are today known as “Chupa Chups” (“chupa” from Spanish means “to suck”). Little known is the fact that the company logo was designed by Salvador Dali. Strange, but before them, no one had thought to put a lollipop on a stick. In 2001, both companies merged into one, becoming the largest candy manufacturer in Europe. The company's profit in 2014 was $ 3.3 billion.

7. Arcor (Argentina): $ 3.7 billion

The company was founded in Cordoba, Argentina by a group of friends (Enrique Brisio and Mario Serveso) and brothers (Fulvio, Renzo and Elio Pagani and Modesto, Pablo and Vincent Maranzana) in 1951. The company name is an acronym: Argentina and CORDoba. In the late 1960s, it became the largest candy manufacturer in South America and expanded to include subsidiaries in Mexico, the United States and Europe. Although the company is not as famous in the world as in Latin America, its products are popular with consumers. It produces candy, chocolate, ice cream, fruit bars and drinks that are sold in 60 countries around the world. Arcor is considered a giant in the confectionery industry with an estimated 2014 revenues of $ 3.7 billion.

6. Hershey Company (USA): $ 7.04 billion

Milton Hershey founded the Lancaster Caramel Company in Lancaster in 1886. Hershey experimented with chocolate, he covered his caramel candies with it, and after successful trials in 1894 the Hershey Company was born. Hershey later went into cocoa and began selling standardized chocolate in solid forms that was easy to produce in a convenient form for consumers. As a result, since 1900, Hershey's chocolate bar has become as popular as the traditional American apple pie.

In 1907, the company released Hershey’s Kiss chocolates, and Milton Hershey himself was involved in the design of the form and packaging. Hershey dies in 1945, but the company has continued to expand, absorbing H.B. Reese Candy Company in 1963, maker of Reese's Peanut Butter Cups. Famous products such as Whoopers Malted Balls, Twizzlers, Tastations, York Peppermint Patties, Sweet Escapes and Reese's Pieces are now owned by the largest confectionery company in the United States, with 2014 revenues of $ 7 billion. ...

5. Ferrero SpA (Italy): $ 10.9 billion

The chocolate company was founded by Michele Ferrero in 1940 in Alba, Italy, who expanded the parent business that was once simple. By 1946 he registered a company called Ferrero SpA and developed the idea for a product called “pasta gianduja” chocolate spread. It is a delicious roasted nut chocolate butter that has been called Nutella since 1954.

In 1968, the company created Kinder Chocolate, a chocolate cubes filled with milk cream, as a healthy product for children. And in 1974, the now famous chocolate egg with a surprise toy inside, Kinder Surprise, appeared. The luxurious Ferrero Rocher and Raffaello chocolates, the popular Tic Tac and natural fruit flavored tea brought the company $ 11 billion in 2014.

4. Concern Meiji (Japan): $ 11.7 billion

The company was founded in Tokyo in 1906, when the Meiji Dairy Company and the Meiji Sugar Company Ltd began a decade-long partnership that brought condensed milk to the Japanese market in 1917. By 1924, the name was changed from Kyokuto Condensed Milk Co. Ltd to Meiji Seika Kaisha Ltd, and eventually the company returned to its original name, Meiji Dairy Corporation. Two years later, it began producing candy, milk powder, milk chocolate bars, cocoa powder, baby food, butter, savory snacks, drinks, yoghurts, margarine and healthy drinks for athletes.
Today, Meiji is one of Japan's largest food corporations, earning $ 11 billion in 2014.

3. Nestle (Switzerland): $ 11.74 billion

Even in a famous ad, Nestlé’s, the titanium of the food industry, makes no secret of its ambition and claims that it is best at profit. In the 1860s, the Swiss pharmacist Henri Nestlé, who was working on a balanced infant formula, met a young neighbor and pastry chef Daniel Peter, who developed the technology for the production of milk curd in a chocolate coating, avoiding the development of mold in the product. At the end of the 19th century, Peter's company was taken over by Nestle.

Meanwhile, in America, brothers Charles and George Page founded the Anglo-Swiss Condensed Milk Company in 1866. A year later, Nestlé successfully completed work on a formula for a baby formula based on milk, sugar and wheat flour, which he called "farine lactee" or "milky taste." Although Nestlé sold the company in 1875, his products were a serious competitor to the Page brothers in the dairy industry. In 1905, both companies merged into one, but it was not until 1977 that it became known as Nestle's. Today it makes the most popular products such as Carnation condensed milk, KitKat bar, Gerber baby food, Milo, Nesquick, Nescafe cocoa, Coffee Mate supplement, Stouffers frozen food, Dreyer's ice cream and Purina and Lean Cuisine pet food, which brought the company $ 11.7 billion in profit in 2014.

2. Mondelez International (USA): $ 17.64 billion

One of the largest multi-national companies in the world, Mondelez International, began operations in 1923 and was founded in the United States as the National Dairy Corporation. Over the decades, the company expanded its business through acquisitions of 55 companies, including Kraft Food. In 1969 the name of the corporation changed to Kraftco Corporation. Today she owns such product lines as: Nabisco, Cadbury, Christie, Chiclets, Toblerone chocolate bar. In 1988, Phillip Morris acquired Kraft for $ 12.9 billion, and in 1995 the company name was changed to Kraft Foods Inc. Mondelez is a huge food, snack and beverage corporation that earned it $ 17.5 billion in 2014.

1. Mars Company (USA): $ 33 billion

America's Mars Incorporated is the leader in terms of profit for 2014. It was founded in 1911 by Frank Mars in Tacoma, Washington. At one time he started with the production of butter candies at home. In 1920, the Milky Way trademark appeared, and its chocolate bar gained popularity. Already in 1929, the company grew to the size of a serious confectionery factory. In 1930, she introduced the Snickers bar, which surpassed the popularity of the Milky Way bar, and two years later, Three Musketeers. By 1923, part of the Mars company had moved to England.

At the core of its activities, the company has set 5 principles that have become the key to success: quality, responsibility, reciprocity, efficiency, freedom. Today, Mars produces world famous confectionery, snacks, drinks: M & M's, Twix, Bounty, Malteasers, Uncle Ben's Rice, Wrigley's gum, Skittles and pet food. In 2014, the company had a profit of $ 33 billion, making it the richest confectionery manufacturer in the world.

Who among us in childhood did not dream of making a "tasty" trip? See new countries - and try all the famous brands of chocolate! Take a ride on the "chocolate train" in Switzerland. Taste unique Belgian chocolate in a tiny Brussels pastry shop. And returning home to buy a couple of bitter "Spartak" chocolates - they are produced by our neighbors - Belarusians ... So, let's go!

Home of the chocolate bar in Switzerland

The old Swiss city of Vevey, on the shores of the most picturesque Lake Geneva. The famous resort, so popular among the European nobility. And the home of the most popular dessert. It was here that a factory was built in 1819, where, for the first time in the world, they began to produce chocolate goodies in their present form - in the form of a bar. This amazing delicacy has become a matter of special pride for the inhabitants of Switzerland, their national product.

The national trait - ingenuity - could not but manifest itself in the production of such a beloved product as Swiss chocolate. Innovative devices and techniques were created. And behind the secret recipe was a real "industrial espionage". But the most famous innovation is milk chocolates, without which it is now impossible to imagine any confectionery.

Who does not know Nestlé products today? Baby food, instant coffee ... But it was Swiss milk chocolate that allowed this company to rise to the very top of the global industry! The technology created in 1875 literally "blew up" the then confectionery market. Around the same years, Rudolf Lindt founded Lindt & Sprungli. He perfected the recipe - and Swiss chocolate gained that famous soft creamy taste for which it is famous. He managed to automate the production processes - and the chocolate was put on stream. To this day, Lindt's company is one of the world's largest manufacturers.

Another old brand, incredibly popular today, was created in 1899 by the Bernese pastry chef Tobler. The chocolate bar with nougat and nuts has an original shape - triangular, like the tops of the Alps. This is perhaps the most recognizable Swiss chocolate. And the Russian consumer, if you ask him a question about Swiss chocolate brands, will surely answer: "Tobleron!" Or - as an option - "Milka". These chocolate bars are incredibly popular in Russia. But not everyone knows that they have more than a century of history. But the most tender miracle with alpine milk has been produced since the beginning of the last century.
The Swiss themselves prefer Frey, known since the end of the 19th century. The founders of the company, the Frey brothers, strived to create high-quality and at the same time affordable Swiss chocolate. And they succeeded!

Chocolate Kingdom - Belgium

Belgium. Country of beer, fries and ... chocolates! There are a great many varieties of them.

But the main thing that Belgian chocolate is famous for is its exceptional quality.

There are no vegetable fats and other substitutes in it and cannot be. Prohibited by law. Only natural cocoa beans! The whole flight of imagination is in a variety of additives and fillings. Sometimes very unusual like beer or flower petals. Belgian chocolate is the real standard of quality! Moreover, for more than a century and a half.

Back in 1857, a humble Swiss émigré pharmacist named Neuhaus came up with a new way to sweeten pill. He covered the bitter pills with a chocolate layer. And soon the family business of Neuhaus became the largest producer of sweets, including the famous Belgian chocolate. And the world's first filled chocolates.

Excellent Belgian chocolate is produced under other equally well-known brands. For example, the luxurious Godiva, so beloved by the Queen of England. Or the democratic Leonidas that conquered the world. Elite Belgian Mary chocolate, very innovative Hamlet ... And funny "toy" Belfine. It looks like a lollipop. But under the bright glaze - all the same Belgian chocolate!

German quality

German chocolate is not that famous. There is no Swiss exclusivity or Belgian delights in it. Traditional practicality and pedantry make themselves felt - the product comes out of excellent quality, tasty and nutritious. This is exactly the famous Ritter Sport. Refresh yourself on the run - that's what it was created for a hundred years ago. Convenient packaging, "ergonomic" shape, useful additives - nuts, yogurt, flakes. Tasty, healthy, nutritious. Real German quality! And truly German chocolate.

Return to native land

Our Russian chocolate has no less glorious and long history. This delicacy has become known to us since the time of Catherine II, and factories for its production appeared not much later than in the chocolate kingdom of Belgium. The first of them were discovered by the French Sioux and the German Einem. But soon the Russian confectionery genius made them a worthy competitor. And from the middle of the 19th century, the factories owned by the merchant Abrikosov began to produce amazing Russian chocolate.
Abrikosov undoubtedly had a talent for marketing. Quickly realizing that the secret of success lies in packaging, he was the first to come up with colorful wrappers for children, without which it is impossible to imagine Russian chocolate. And what is his "ethnographic" series worth?

This enterprise has gone through turbulent revolutionary years - only the name has changed. And when buying one of the most popular chocolates of the Babaevsky concern, do not forget about their creator - Alexei Abrikosov. Perhaps the most famous
the creation of the confectioners of the factory. Babaeva is the familiar chocolate "Inspiration". The one, divided into tiny sweets and with a ballerina on the package. Russian ballet, Russian chocolate - really inspiring!

The Einem factory, which was renamed into "Red October", also preserved its traditions. Who among us does not know "Alenka" - the most famous Russian milk chocolate? Created in the early 60s of the last century, "Alenka" to this day pleases kids, as it once made their grandfathers and grandmothers happy.

Everyone is familiar with delicate and airy tiles with the inscription "Russian Chocolate". They are produced by the factory of the same name. It was founded quite recently - in the late 90s. But its products quickly conquered the Russian market. Aerated Russian chocolate is amazing - our pastry chefs continue their glorious traditions with dignity.

… The journey ended. And at home there is a cup of coffee and a chocolate bar of your favorite brand. It doesn't matter if it was brought from distant wanderings or bought nearby. After all, the main thing is taste, isn't it?

Goodbye bye!

Chocolate is a favorite delicacy for adults and children. Estimate the scale: the global consumption of chocolate is about 4 tons per year. Which chocolate is better - white or dark, milk or bitter, with or without additives - everyone decides for himself.

Good quality chocolate (natural) according to research:

• has an antibacterial effect;
• helps to strengthen the immune system;
• invigorates the spirit and improves mood.

The best brands of dark chocolate

Chocolate is considered bitter if the proportion of cocoa powder exceeds 55%. Other key components of the composition: cocoa butter (from 30%) and powdered sugar. Caloric content - 530 kcal; daily norm - 25 g; proteins - 6.2, fats - 35.4, carbohydrates - 48.2 g.

4 Dove

Aromatic and delicious. Patented technology
Country: USA
Rating (2018): 4.6

Dove chocolate has not yet taken root on the Russian market. One of the hypotheses of this is the consonance of the chocolate brand with the untwisted soap. We hasten to dispel doubts - the chocolate maker has nothing to do with soap. At the origins of the creation of chocolate, whose name can be translated as "dove", is a pastry shop in Chicago, opened in 1939 by a native of Greece. By 1956, the shop owner had developed his own signature chocolate - incredibly delicious and delicate. Today the brand belongs to the Mars corporation.

Bitter chocolate (75%) of this brand, unlike other varieties, is made using a special patented technology, the uniqueness of which lies in the preservation of the cocoa taste and nutrients. In the reviews they write that the only drawback is the price - chocolate is quite expensive (about 110 rubles per 90 g). Among the advantages are exquisite design, delicious aroma, pleasant taste.

3 Victory of taste

Recognized Russian manufacturer. Sugarless
Country Russia
Rating (2018): 4.7

Pobeda Vkusa is one of the trademarks of the Russian factory Pobeda (founded in 1999). The brand's bitter chocolate (72%) was awarded the Best Product (2004). A variation of the bar with the same percentage of cocoa, but without sugar - winner of the silver medal "Innovations and Traditions" (2013), as well as the diploma "100 best goods of Russia" (2016).

The line of dark chocolate also includes dark bars without sugar (57%), porous, chocolate (72%) with orange pieces. According to reviews, dark chocolate bars of this brand are famous for their expressive bitter taste with a long-lasting aftertaste, languid aroma and good composition (minimum sugar, maximum cocoa). Chocolate (100 g) costs 118 rubles on average.

2 A. Korkunov

No palm oil. Spectacular packaging
Country: Russia, USA
Rating (2018): 4.8

The A. Korkunov ”was founded in 1997 in Russia. After the sale of the brand to the American company "Wrigley" and its subsequent takeover by the corporation "Mars", the products are now produced by the Russian division of the latter. The bars are distinguished by a delicate chocolate taste and the absence of palm oil in the composition. The assortment includes classic black (55%) and bitter (70 and 72%) chocolate, as well as bars with whole hazelnuts and almonds.

In reviews, buyers do not skimp on compliments, positively evaluating, first of all, the taste and aroma with notes of cocoa. Also, buyers are pleased with the conveniently opening cardboard packaging, inside which there is a tile in a beautifully designed wrapper, and the ease of breaking the slices. Chocolate (90 g) costs an average of 130 rubles.

How and where is it better to store chocolate? The correct answer: in a dry place at a temperature of about 16 degrees, and here's why:

1. If you store chocolate at higher temperatures, the cocoa butter will melt and lose its beneficial properties.
2. If you store the tiles at a lower temperature, the sugar will crystallize and the water will freeze.
3. Direct sunlight on chocolate destroys the healthy fats that make up the composition, and also leads to an unpleasant odor.
4. Storing the bar in the refrigerator can cause the chocolate to absorb the aromas of food from adjacent shelves.

1 Lindt

Most intense (99% cocoa). Natural composition
Country: Switzerland
Rating (2018): 4.9

The chocolate produced by the Swiss brand "Lindt" is considered one of the highest quality in the world: the best cocoa beans, the firm's silky smooth texture, a unique roasting and grinding process, filigree decoration and elegant packaging. The "Excellence" series is represented by dark chocolate with cocoa in the composition: 70, 85 and 99%.

True connoisseurs are crazy about dark chocolate with a cocoa content of 99%. This chocolate, which has a rich taste and aroma (roasted coffee, dried plums, vanilla, blackberries, etc.), slowly melts in your mouth. In the reviews, they share unusual taste impressions, simultaneously noting the naturalness of the composition and the first-class quality of the product as a whole. The price bites - from 250 rubles. per tile 100 g.

The best brands of dark chocolate

Dark (semi-bitter) chocolate is characterized by a content of over 40% cocoa, over 20% cocoa butter and sugar or sweetener. Calorie content - 540 kcal; daily norm - 25 g; proteins - 4.9, fats - 30.2, carbohydrates - 61 g.

4 Eco Botanica

4 times less carbohydrates. Vitamins, extracts and prebiotics
Country Russia
Rating (2018): 4.6

The Eco-Botanica line, developed at the ROT-Front factory, is intended for those who look after their health, but do not deprive themselves of little joys. All products in the series are enriched with useful extracts and vitamins. The assortment of chocolate is represented by bitter, dark and milky bars.

Among the dark ones, you will find chocolate with hazelnuts and stevia, orange and stevia, and vanilla. The manufacturer insists that the bars from this collection contain 4 times less carbohydrates than the usual dark chocolate. The composition contains soluble dietary fiber (oligofructose, inulin), which are unique prebiotics. A tile (90 g) costs an average of 115 rubles.

3 Russia Generous soul

The best mix of dark and white chocolate. Moderate bitterness
Country: Russia, Switzerland
Rating (2018): 4.7

The domestic chocolate factory Rossiya, founded in 1969, is now owned by Nestlé. Under the brand "Russia is a generous soul!" produce bitter, dark, milk and white chocolate. The most popular way is used by dark chocolate bars, which are abundant in the assortment of the brand: classic dark, with almonds, with hazelnuts and cookies, etc. Among the new products, a mix of dark and white chocolate should be noted: with orange zest; with hazelnuts.

Noble dark chocolate with hints of rum and an attractive cocoa taste is made according to traditional recipes. The reverse side contains useful information about the manufacturer, tile weight, expiration date. After opening the package, you can safely close it - the edges stick together reliably, keeping the product fresh. The reviews share that the taste of chocolate and additives (almonds, hazelnuts) is felt well, there are enough nuts, and the bitterness is moderate. A tile (90 g) will cost about 84 rubles.

2 Babaevsky

The oldest trade mark. Interesting flavor combinations
Country Russia
Rating (2018): 4.8

One of the oldest and still operating in Russia is the Babaevsky concern, founded in 1804. Today the factory belongs to the United Confectioners holding. The brand's specialty is high quality dark chocolate made from selected cocoa beans and cocoa butter: with hazelnuts, raisins, whole almonds, cinnamon, grapefruit, orange, vanilla, etc.

In the reviews they write that whichever variety of dark chocolate you choose, you will hit the bull's eye - “Keep the brand! Interesting flavor combinations. Favorite chocolate, 10 out of 10! ". Among the latest innovations is dark chocolate with prune pieces, marked by the manufacturer as a lean product. The average price tag for a 100-gram tile is 100 rubles.

1 Ritter Sport

Best design. Invigorating and refreshing fillings
Country: Germany
Rating (2018): 4.9

The history of Ritter Sport dates back to 1912 in Germany. The year 1932 is marked by the birth of the trademark square: chocolate of this shape does not break in a pocket and is not inferior in weight to traditional bars. National recognition came to the brand in 1970, along with the now well-known slogan “Kvadratish. Praktiš. Good ".

The most popular semi-bitter square is Extra Nut, a chocolate with whole hazelnuts, selected and fried until golden brown. Another bestseller from the dark is an invigorating and energizing square with elite cocoa from Nicaragua (50%). There are many reviews of those who are not indifferent to the original dark chocolate with a refreshing mint filling, as well as to the noble semi-bitter chocolate with Californian almond marzipan. A 100-gram package will cost about 95 rubles.

The best brands of milk chocolate

The key to the success of milk chocolate is the inclusion in the composition, in addition to cocoa (from 40%), cocoa butter (from 20%), grated cocoa and granulated sugar, also condensed milk. It is this component that makes chocolate so tender, sweet and melting in your mouth. Calorie content - 550 kcal; daily norm - 20 g; proteins - 6.9, fats - 35.7, carbohydrates - 54.4 g.

4 Nestle

Melts in your mouth. Closer sticker
Country: Switzerland
Rating (2018): 4.6

Milk chocolate "Nestlé" is a synonym for amazing tastes: classic milk chocolate, with hazelnuts, with almonds and raisins, with almonds and waffles, a mix of milk and white, etc. All of them are distinguished by a high milk content in the composition. Buyers say the tiles are incredibly tender and melt in the mouth. The main thing is delicious chocolate - sweet but not sugary.

Milk chocolate with hazelnuts was especially loved by customers. This is an easy dessert with hazelnuts for every day. The manufacturer did not regret the nuts, which caused a storm of approval. The place for opening the package is well traced, there is a sticker-closure. A tile (90 g) costs an average of 111 rubles.

3 Nesquik

Best for kids. With milk and calcium
Country: USA, Switzerland
Rating (2018): 4.7

Milk chocolate from Nesquik is perhaps the best for children. The trade mark belongs to the Nestlé company, the actual name of the brand itself comes from the abbreviation “Nestlé Quik”. Kwiki Rabbit Chocolate Bars act as a source of calcium. Parents in the reviews emphasize that there are no artificial colors, flavors and preservatives in the composition.

A distinctive feature is the content of milk in chocolate: in two slices, the equivalent of 50 ml. The manufacturer carefully divides the chocolate into portions in accordance with children's nutritional standards. The modest assortment includes milk chocolate with milk filling, with strawberry filling, as well as a bar with berries and cereals. Each slice features a rabbit - a great trick for kids. A 100-gram package will cost a sweet tooth on average 95 rubles.

2 Alenka

Best price. Taste familiar from childhood
Country Russia
Rating (2018): 4.8

Alenka chocolate was produced in the Soviet Union, and then in Russia since 1965 at the Krasny Oktyabr confectionery factory. Domestic buyers fell in love with milk bars due to their rich creamy taste. As of today, the trade mark belongs to the United Confectioners. The chocolate is named in honor of Valentina Tereshkova's daughter, and the well-known wrapper is a photograph of a girl redrawn by Nikolai Maslov who won a photo contest held by the factory.

The assortment is represented by two dozen varieties of milk chocolate: with hazelnuts, dragees, raisins, almonds, boiled condensed milk, creamy nut filling, etc. For the convenience of customers, the manufacturer offers chocolate in bars and sticks of various sizes from 15 to 200 g. Milk chocolate "Vigorous recharge with granola ”, the latest novelty of the brand, judging by the reviews, has already managed to fall in love with Russian buyers with its original flavor range and high nutritional value. A bar (100 g) costs about 60 rubles. - and this is the best price among the nominees in the rating.

1 Milka

The most tender. Rich assortment
Country: Germany
Rating (2018): 4.9

Milka is a legendary chocolate created back in 1826 by Philip Suchar. Chocolate got its name later, in 1901, by combining the words "milk" (Milch) and "cocoa" (Kakao). One of the first slogans is "The most delicate chocolate treat!" The Milka cow, which appeared on the packaging from the artist's brush in 1972, became so fond of customers that, together with the lilac packaging and white font, it became the brand's symbol. Chocolate has been on the Russian market since 2004.

The reviews emphasize that the brand boasts a large assortment. There is really a place for lovers of milk chocolate to roam: classic, with hazelnuts, hazelnuts and raisins, almonds, caramel filling, wild berries, strawberries with cream, cookies, salted cracker, porous, with coke filling, etc. The cost of a package (90 g) in the average is 119 rubles.

The best brands of white chocolate

The peculiarity of white chocolate is the absence of cocoa powder in the composition. The key ingredients of these white chocolate bars are cocoa butter, milk powder, and granulated sugar / sweetener. Calorie content - 540 kcal; daily norm - 10 g; proteins - 4.2, fats - 30.4, carbohydrates - 62.2 g.

3 Alpen Gold

Bestseller. Abundance of filling
Country: USA
Rating (2018): 4.7

Alpen Gold entered the Russian market in the 90s, and since then has reliably maintained its leading position. White chocolate of the American trade mark with almonds and coconut flakes is very popular. Also on sale is white chocolate of the Max Fun series with orange flavor, complemented by explosive caramel and shaped chewing marmalade.

Even those who are not fans of white chocolate as such leave tremendous reviews for these white bars. The thing is that there is a little bit of chocolate in the bar relative to the filling - a lot of nuts and coconut. The composition is not natural - there are emulsifiers (soy lecithin, E476) and flavorings. However, the taste does not fail: "Almost like a Raphael!" - users write. The average price for branded white chocolate in a flow pack weighing 90 g is about 69 rubles.

2 Schogetten

New. Divided into pieces
Country: Germany
Rating (2018): 4.8

The Shogetten trademark is just conquering the Russian market. Those who have already tried branded tiles have no doubts that the manufacturer will definitely succeed in conquering domestic buyers. The history of the factory, which produces chocolate, dates back to 1857, and the brand - in 1962. A unique feature of chocolate is that it is already divided into 18 small pieces.

All chocolate of this brand has excellent taste and aroma. For lovers of white chocolate, the company offers classic white (White Chocolate), as well as mixes of white, milk and dark chocolate (Trilogia Noisettes), and strawberries with white and dark chocolate (Trilogia Strawberry). The pseudo half-open package attracts attention. The reviews note that the inside of the chocolate is additionally wrapped in thin foil paper. The price for chocolate (100 g) is about 116 rubles.

1 Air

The best among the porous ones. Attractive price tag
Country Russia
Rating (2018): 4.9

The best among porous ones is chocolate of the Russian trade mark "Vozdushny", produced by the concern "Kraft Foods" since 2000. The firm offers aerated dark, milk and white chocolate with a light texture and millions of chocolate bubbles. White tiles are some of the most loved by customers and therefore the best selling. In addition to the classic white aerated chocolate, you can also find white bars with Raspberry berry jelly and hazelnuts on sale.

The secret of the popularity of this brand's white chocolate is its amazing sweet taste without sugaryness, which you fall in love with the first time and forever. "Never get bored!" - fans say with confidence in the reviews. The composition, I confess, is far from ideal (emulsifiers, flavors, etc.). A big plus is the packaging that is easy to open and close, such a kind of lock. A tile weighing 85 g will cost 67 rubles on average.

How to choose the best chocolate

Cheat sheet on how to tell if chocolate is good:

1. First of all, study the composition... Palm oil and lauric acid - brake light!
2. Stop looking at the amount of ingredients... Less is better. Ideally, cocoa, butter and sugar.
3. Pay attention to the amount of fat... The more fat in the composition, the less the tile will be stored.
4. Take note of the shelf life... Potential side effects on synthetic antioxidants responsible for long-term storage include kidney and liver malfunction, allergic reactions, skin rashes and itching. Therefore, for safety reasons, preference should be given to tiles with a short shelf life, and they should be eaten on time, of course.
5. Rate the color of the tiles... The smoothness and uniformity of the color of the chocolate are signs of high quality. There should be no white patches on the tiles.
6. Check how the tiles are divided into pieces... Good chocolate will break dry. If the chocolate lasts, this suggests that the manufacturer saved on cocoa, but did not skimp on additives.

There are many things in the world that can amaze and surprise. Not many people believe in certain things, but there are really incredible ones. Everyone knows that the quality justifies the price. The ingredient may be exotic or difficult to obtain. But we will talk about a simple dessert - chocolate, which is available to everyone and is not an exquisite dish for a couple of thousand dollars.

Most expensive delicacy

This photo shows the most expensive chocolate in the world, which costs more than two thousand dollars. Who would have thought that you can invent chocolate with a cost of 50 grams? gold. Such an expensive and exquisite item is sold only to order and does not live in the world for more than an hour (it is eaten immediately).

It is so valuable that it is considered the most expensive chocolate in the world, and its rating is 1st place on our planet. At the moment, no one has been able to surpass the achievement

What is the most expensive chocolate in the world and who is its creator? Such a genius and master in chocolate is Fritz Knipschildt. For his creation, he set a price of $ 2,600 (145,600 rubles) for half a kilogram. The whole point is in a special ingredient - truffle. One of the most expensive foods on the planet is truffle.

The creator of this delicacy has already managed to get into the Guinness Book of Records. At the moment, the most expensive chocolate in the world in terms of its composition and taste is Fritz's. Thanks to the unusual combination of two ingredients, it has gained worldwide fame. The most expensive Madeleine chocolate in the world is named La Madeline au Truffe.

How and when is it?

Natural and unusual products usually have a shelf life of several days. All ingredients are carefully selected and sorted by the best of the best. Each piece is handmade. Cream or other perishable ingredient is often used. In such conditions, the product should be eaten either immediately or a maximum of a couple of days later.

The most expensive chocolate in the world should be eaten slowly, little by little bite off and chew each bite in order to feel the full taste and originality of the confection.

Great gourmets and experts have highly appreciated such an unusual combination of flavors. Since the contents of the package deteriorate quickly and cost a lot of money, it is made to order so as not to lose money on one spoiled chocolate bar, which costs $ 250 (14,000 rubles).

About the origin of sweetness

World Famous Treat - No one could have imagined cocoa beans would become the most expensive chocolate.

This delicacy originates from the most ancient peoples. For over 500 years, it has been consumed in different forms and in different ways. There are many varieties and combinations of the product with unusually strange ingredients. For example, pepper or salt.

500 years ago, an unusual drink was used by the Aztec and Maya tribes. It contained chili peppers and cocoa butter, which were prized as human life. Only a hundred grains of cocoa could be exchanged for a whole slave. Only priests, leaders and the rich could drink cocoa drink. It was believed that it cures diseases, gives strength, and prolongs life. Chief Montezuma loved this "elixir of life" so much that he drank up to 50 cups a day.

Popularity in Europe

After Columbus brought cocoa to America in 1502, it began to spread little by little around the world. Although a drink with a specific taste was carefully hidden in the country and was consumed only by people who were representatives of the upper classes.

In the 19th century, thanks to François Louis Caye, chocolate gained its sweet taste, firm shape and great popularity. He made chocolate what it is now, adding sweetness and milk (dry) to it for the first time. I also removed hot chili peppers from the composition. Many people liked this option. After François created a solid version of chocolate. It began to be used not only by adults, but also by children.

Rating of the most expensive chocolate. top 10

Probably, only specialists and wealthy people know about expensive chocolate for hundreds of dollars made of gold and truffle. This information really amazes with how much the product from the best chocolatiers is valued.

1. La Madeline au Truffe is the most expensive chocolate in the world in terms of its composition. Half a kilogram costs $ 2,600 (145,600 rubles). So far, no one has been able to break Fritz Knipschildt's record. This is one of the most expensive types of chocolate in the world.
2. Cadbury's Wispa Gold Chocolate is an edible gold plated product. Price - $ 1,628 (91,168 rubles).
3. Le Grand Louis XVI by Debauve & Gallais. The manufacturer was the supplier of Napoleon himself. It's incredible, but true. Price - $ 900 (50 400 rubles).
4. Chocolates with Edible Gold by DeLafee. The product looks like a piece of jewelry. The surface is the best cocoa from Ecuador, interspersed with edible pieces of gold. Price - $ 508 (28 448 rubles).
5. Amedei Toscano is a product made from the most expensive ingredients. To create one box of chocolate, take: 450 Swarovski crystals, truffles, edible gold, the best champagne, high-quality chocolate. Only $ 294 (16 464 rubles).
6. The Aficionado's Collection by The House of Grauer. This manufacturer offers specific candies. The best tobacco leaves are included in these products. They are advertised as a treat for cigar lovers and smokers. Price - $ 210 (11,760 rubles).
7. Richart. The manufacturer is famous for its varieties of sweets. The assortment includes chocolate confectionery with citrus, plant, flower, pepper flavors, etc. Price - $ 120 (6 748 rubles).
8. Grand Cru. Pierre Marcolini is a chocolatier who is recognized as the most flavorful pastry chef. Its ingredients are thoroughly mixed for preparation, and the entire cooking process is at the highest level. Pierre presents his dishes as dishes from the best chefs. Marcolini estimated his chocolate at $ 102 (5,712 rubles).
9. Amedei Porcelana by Amedei is recognized as the best and has many awards for it. Cocoa is grown in Venezuela and is one of the finest and rarest varieties. The price for a tile is $ 90 (5,040 rubles).
10. Vosges Haut Chocolat. The owner of the pastry shop - Katrina Markoff - became popular because of the unusual recipes for her chocolate. Katherine uses ginger, cinnamon, pepper, wasabi, etc. in their products. The average price per pack is $ 69 (3,864 rubles).

The benefits of sweetness

Not many people know about the great benefits of chocolate. From childhood, they teach that sweets are always harmful and undesirable for health.

But here are the biggest pluses of this product.

1. Improved mood. In the process of using the product, the hormone of joy - endorphin is released.
2. Energy source. Chocolate is high in calories and helps to eliminate fatigue.
3. Strengthening the brain. After consuming chocolate, increased efficiency occurs.
4. High-quality dark chocolate is allowed even on a diet.
5. Excites. It is an aphrodisiac for humans.
6. Good for the skin. Therefore, it is used in spa treatments.

Harm

Basically, the whole trouble with sweets is due to its excess in the diet. If you consume something in large quantities, you can get sick. After eating chocolate in excess, the stomach begins to ache, excess weight may appear, blood sugar rises, etc.

How to define an expensive and quality product?

Everyone knows that a good product is expensive. But this statement is not always correct. You need to be able to distinguish the original from the fakes. Chocolate is no exception in this case. Instead of quality ingredients, various cheap substitutes are added. For example, instead of cocoa butter - vegetable, instead of good sugar - some other, cheaper, etc.

• matte color on the inside (when chocolate breaks, inside it should be matte, dark, no shine or traces);
• aroma (real chocolate should smell good);
• melts well;
• one-piece and pleasant packaging (if the product was stored in unsuitable conditions, this will affect the packaging).

Even the most expensive chocolate in the world can taste bad. The main criteria are quality and consumer preferences.