Chocolate is not just a treat; it’s a work of art that requires proper storage. This is especially true when it comes to organic chocolate, like the kind made at Starchild Chocolate. Our chocolate contains no artificial additives, so its flavour and aroma depend entirely on how it is stored. Let’s explore the essential tips for storing chocolate properly, ensuring it stays as delicious as the day you bought it.
Temperature Matters
Temperature plays a key role in storing chocolate. The optimal range for storage is between 15°C and 20°C. If the temperature exceeds this range, the chocolate may start to melt. However, if it’s stored in too cold an environment, it can lose its flavour and develop a white coating, caused by sugar and fat crystallisation.
Can you store chocolate in the fridge?
Many people store chocolate in the fridge, especially during hot weather. However, the fridge is not the ideal place for chocolate storage. Cold temperatures can cause condensation on the surface, leading to a loss of texture and flavour. Additionally, fridges often harbour strong odours from other foods that chocolate can easily absorb. Therefore, use the fridge only as a last resort if you have no other options, as you risk developing sugar bloom due to the temperature fluctuations and high humidity in the fridge.
Does chocolate go bad over time?
Dark chocolate has a long shelf life, but that doesn’t mean it will last forever. Dark chocolate can last up to two years if stored correctly, but for the best flavour, we recommend consuming it within a few months of purchase.
In the case of white chocolate and its alternatives, such as our White-ish Chocolate ⇱, the shelf life may be slightly shorter due to its higher fat content, which can degrade over time. Therefore, it’s best to enjoy it within the first few months.
Protect from Light and Smells
If chocolate is exposed to light, it can negatively affect its quality. Sunlight heats the chocolate and accelerates its oxidation, leading to a loss of aroma and the development of an unpleasant taste. That’s why it’s essential to store chocolate in a dark place.
As for odours, chocolate tends to absorb other smells, especially if it’s not properly sealed. We recommend using airtight packaging or foil to prevent exposure to unwanted aromas.
How to Properly Wrap Chocolate for Long-Term Storage
If you plan to store chocolate for an extended period, proper wrapping is essential. The best option is to use the original packaging or special foil designed for chocolate storage. Avoid open containers that allow contact with air. If storing chocolate for a long time, try not to open it too frequently to avoid fluctuations in temperature and humidity.
Humidity – Chocolate’s Enemy
Excess humidity is another enemy of chocolate. The ideal humidity level for storing chocolate is around 50%. If the humidity is too high, condensation may form, leading to sugar or fat bloom on the surface. This doesn’t mean the chocolate is spoiled, but its appearance and texture can be affected.
What should you do if white spots appear on the chocolate?
White spots on chocolate result from either sugar or fat bloom. This happens when the chocolate is stored in conditions with sharp changes in temperature or humidity. It doesn’t make the chocolate unsafe to eat, but it can affect the texture and appearance. If your chocolate develops white spots, it’s still edible, though the flavour may be less intense.
How to Store Chocolate in Warm Weather
Summer can be challenging for chocolate lovers. High temperatures can cause the chocolate to melt, even when stored in a cupboard. If you don’t have a cool place to store it, you can temporarily use the fridge, but only as a last resort. If you must use the fridge, wrap the chocolate in an airtight container or foil to reduce the risk of sugar bloom caused by temperature fluctuations and humidity.
Storing Chocolate for Gifts
If you’re planning to give chocolate as a gift or use it for a special occasion, proper storage becomes even more important. To ensure that the chocolate retains its appearance and taste until it’s presented, it’s best to store it in a cool, dry place. If the chocolate is in gift packaging, make sure it is well-protected from light and moisture.
Our White-ish Chocolate ⇱ is a perfect choice for a gift. It’s a rich, creamy product with nutty notes and contains no milk. We designed it for those seeking unique flavours without compromising on quality. White-ish Chocolate isn’t just an alternative to white chocolate; it’s a whole new experience for those who value sophistication and care about their health.
Frequently Asked Questions
If stored properly, chocolate can be safe to eat even after the expiration date, particularly dark chocolate. However, the flavour may not be as fresh as it once was.
Freezing chocolate is not recommended, as it can alter the texture and flavour due to ice crystals forming inside the product. If you need to store chocolate for a long time, it’s better to follow proper cool storage guidelines.
Chocolate made from natural ingredients, like the products we create at Starchild Chocolate, has a richer and more authentic flavour. We don’t use artificial additives or preservatives, so our chocolate requires proper storage to ensure you can enjoy its full flavour.