What is the difference between milk and dark chocolate?

Written by: Kristina Madjuga, May 2020

How is Chocolate Made?

The production process of chocolate starts from cocoa beans that are ground up and turned into chocolate liquor, also known as cocoa mass. The liquor is then blended with the cocoa butter, cocoa powder, and sugar, making this the base for both dark and milk chocolate. The latter, however, also contains milk solids, such as milk or milk powder, as well as extra sugar, which yields that irresistibly smooth and sweet flavour of milk chocolate (1). 

Dark chocolate, on the other hand, contains the highest percentage of cocoa solids and cocoa butter, which gives it the characteristic rich, chocolaty taste. 

Is Dark Chocolate Healthier than Milk Chocolate?

A 30g serving of dark chocolate contains 174 calories and 11g of sugar, whereas the same amount of milk chocolate has 160 calories and 15g of sugar (2). Which means that if you choose to eat milk chocolate, you might be consuming fewer calories, but more sugar.

Dark chocolate, however, contains twice as much fibre and a significantly larger amount of flavonoids, both of which have been shown to provide various health benefits when consumed on a regular basis. Thus, if you want to curb your chocolate cravings but also get some added health benefits, go for dark chocolate!

A Good Dark Chocolate to Consume

It is important to remember that like all good things, chocolate should be enjoyed in moderation. Choose products that have a shorter ingredients list, and preferably choose dark chocolate. Fun fact, Bean Bark is not only made of vegan dark chocolate but also has additional nutritional benefits, such as higher fibre, iron and plant-based protein content. Try it out for yourself by clicking on “order now”!

References: 

1. How is Chocolate Made? Retrieved May 19, 2020, from https://www.scienceofcooking.com/chocolate/how-is-chocolate-made.htm 

2. Health Canada, Health Products and Food Branch, Food Directorate, & Nutrition Research Division. (2017, August 24). Canadian Nutrient File (CNF). Retrieved May 19, 2020, from https://food-nutrition.canada.ca/cnf-fce/index-eng.jsp