Israel is becoming sweet, and it’s not because of the Dead Sea’s level is dropping, but mainly because of the premium bitter chocolate, which contains high cocoa content.

According to the data, the chocolate market last year experienced an increase of 11.3% compared with the previous year, with a monetary value of NIS 440.3 million.

The more surprising figure is that about half the amount of chocolate in Israel is bittersweet. Most of the growth in the market is with the premium dark chocolates, with an increase of 8.4%, mainly among adults, and currently accounts for about 14% of the market.

It is believed that this has resulted in such a large increase within a year is the belief that it is a healthy product and that it contains ingredients that help protect the body and improve its functioning. This is mainly due to the substance found in the cocoa plant and is called flavonoid – an antioxidant that protects toxins.

Is it true?

Many cardiologists say that in the chocolate production stages, the healthy ingredients are removed because of their bitter taste, and thus remain mainly fats and sugars. But added that it was still possible to enjoy the bitter chocolate without guilt if it was consumed to a degree.

And what are the favorite flavors this year for bitter chocolate? Salt, mint, hazelnuts, chili and pistachios, strawberries and salted caramel.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)