United Cocoa Processor, Inc. Approved for EU Organic Production Certification

United Cocoa Processor, Inc. (UCP) has been approved for production of organic cocoa products under the European standard known as EEC 2092/91.  The certificate and a list of associated products can be seen here. (01/24/07)

 

Chocolate can do good things for your heart, skin and brain

Research by scientists at the Harvard University School of Public Health concluded that chocolate seemed to boost heart rates.  CNN.com  (12/22/06)

 

United Cocoa Processor, Inc. Obtains Organic Production Certification

United Cocoa Processor, Inc. (UCP) has been certified as an organic manufacturer.  UCP is certified to produce 100% organic cocoa butter, 100% organic cocoa cake, 100% organic cocoa liquor, 100% organic cocoa nibs, 100% organic cocoa powder, 100% organic cocoa shell, certified organic alkalized cocoa cake, certified organic alkalized cocoa liquor, and certified organic alkalized cocoa powder.  (see organic certificate) (05/01/06)

 

Highest levels of flavanols were found in natural cocoa powder

The level of antioxidants commonly available in chocolate is directly linked to the level of natural cocoa contained in the product, says a new study from the US. (ConfectionaryNews.com) (09/27/05)

 

Candy companies highlight chocolate's benefits

Several companies are rolling out new dark chocolate confections, despite doubts from some nutritionists and scientists that data from studies that promote the antioxidant benefits of cocoa can be translated to candy. Mars Inc. is offering, and The Hershey Co. plans to offer, chocolate bars that emphasize cocoa's potential benefits. Washington Post, The (08/09/05)

 

Improving health can be more fun than many think

Those not able to give up that double cheeseburger with bacon shouldn't give up on trying to stay healthy altogether, and a list of 10 science-certified ways to improve your health offers some alternatives. Measures range from brushing and flossing or going to the mall to get some exercise, to eating dark chocolate, having more sex and even laughing more. USA TODAY (07/13/05)

 

Experts OK spending discretionary calories on dark chocolate

If you're going to consume an extra 200 calories or so on snack food, reaching for dark chocolate may be a better option than potato chips or soda, according to some health experts. Research linking the flavonoids present in cocoa to heart health is prompting new interest in dark chocolate products. eDiets.com (05/25/05)

 

Study: Chocolate compound helps fight cancer
A natural compound in chocolate kept breast cancer cells from dividing during a recent U.S. study, but additional research is needed to find out why the compounds stop the cell cycle, scientists say.   FoodNavigator (4/18/05)
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The healthy side of chocolate
Flavanoids found in chocolate have been found to relax blood vessels, lower "bad" cholesterol, increase "good" cholesterol and help prevent blood clots. Experts caution, however, that the treat should be eaten in moderation.  The Washington Post (2/9/05)