Healthy Chocolate

Whilst we have probably all read about the health benefits of dark chocolate, it seems that the evidence does keep building.

Leatherhead Food Research has launched a new report called Future Directions for Functional Foods. Within the report, dark chocolate is discussed widely and is now apparently bought by 40% of UK households. 

The report goes on to suggest many claims for dark chocolate, some of which are well documented and others not so just yet:

            Anti ageing benefits

            Heart health claims

Mood enhancing properties due to constituents such as Anandamines, Caffeine and Magnesium

It can stimulate the secretion of endorphins and boost serotonin. 

The report states that there is more work to be done to substantiate these claims but the picture is certainly building and the functional confectionery market is yet to go mainstream, if it ever does. 

Interesting reading though and good for retailers to remain armed with such facts for their customers! 

For many more confectionery facts, remember to keep your eye on Sweet Retailing.