It's a debate as old as time itself: Milk Chocolate vs. Dark Chocolate. While health enthusiasts have a firm stance behind dark, some people just will never waver from their love for milk. But we would never want to limit anyone to only one type of chocolate, so we’ve got all the facts to help you see why every diet and every confectionery shop should have plenty of each!

Sometimes you just crave that sweet and creamy taste while other times you just want something rich with a little bite. So what makes milk chocolate so different from dark?

It's all about the ingredients; particularly chocolate liquor and milk fat. While both types of chocolate contain each, the FDA sets specific standards as to how much is needed to identify with one over the other. Milk chocolate must have at least 10% chocolate liquor with a minimum of 12% milk solids, while dark chocolate requires more than 15% chocolate liquor with less than 12% milk solids. These prerequisites ensure the specific taste you've come to expect from each chocolate.

However, there are multiple variations to these standards once sweeteners and other ingredients of the chocolatier's choosing are incorporated during the chocolate making process.  That's why not every brand is created equal. And thank goodness for that because everyone loves options!  From different flavors and textures to various nutritional content, both types of chocolates will never be one size fits all, so it's up to you to decide!

Another key ingredient that differentiates the flavors and health benefits of milk vs. dark is cocoa. Cocoa contains a metabolite called flavonoids, which act as an antioxidant helping reduce cell damage associated with heart disease, as well as lowering blood pressure, reducing blood clot risks and improving cognitive performance and vascular function. They have also been attributed to decreasing the risk of certain cancers. While both chocolates contain this ingredient, dark chocolate has over 60% more cocoa, which means a lot more health-enhancing flavonoids. And to top it off, it's also made with less added sugar than milk chocolate.

And yet, so many people love choosing milk chocolate over dark as their preferred indulgence. Why? Ask any kid which chocolate they prefer and 9/10 will tell you milk chocolate, which is why some say dark chocolate is the chocolate for adults. While it's filled with antioxidants, these compounds don't contribute to a desired taste. The bitter flavor and dusty texture doesn't quite pair as smoothly with caramel or peanut butter. However, it's hard to find a fruit that it doesn't make a great match with. The sweetness of fruits like strawberries, bananas, and cherries create a perfect balance to the rich bite of dark chocolate. But in the end, the melt-in-your-mouth creaminess of milk chocolate just appeals to more palates. The sophisticated taste of dark chocolate isn't for everyone, but with the right pairing like toasted almonds or a smooth glass of red wine, it can really be the perfect indulgence.

So when it comes to dark chocolate, this guilty-pleasure may not be too guilty after all.  But it's hard to resist the smooth decadence of a milk chocolate treat at any age. It seems as though the classic debate will continue on for years to come, so it's a good thing we have plenty of options for every chocolate lover. As your trusted wholesale chocolate supplier, check out all of our milk and dark chocolate brands to find exactly what your customers are looking for.

• Share on:
• WhatsApp
• Deel
• Tweet
• Pin it
• Messenger
• Email

---