For years now, there has been a debate raging in the culinary world over whether white chocolate is “real” chocolate or not. On one side of the argument are those who insist that white chocolate is not true chocolate because it lacks the cocoa bean flavor that is present in dark and milk chocolates. On the other side are those who argue that white chocolate is indeed real chocolate because it meets the legal definition of chocolate. So, which side is right?

Real chocolate lovers know that there is only one kind of chocolate: dark chocolate. This bitter, rich flavor is the result of high cocoa content and low milk solids. It’s a true celebration of the cacao pod. White chocolate, on the other hand, gets its sweetness from the addition of milk and sugar, and sometimes vanilla.

The Legal Definition of Chocolate

To understand the debate, it’s important to know what the legal definition of chocolate is. The FDA defines chocolate as “a product that is made from cacao beans and contains cocoa butter.” cocoa butter. This means that, by law, white chocolate is considered to be real chocolate.

The Argument Against White Chocolate

So if white chocolate is legally considered to be real chocolate, why do some people argue that it’s not? The answer lies in taste. Unlike dark and milk chocolates, which get their characteristic flavors from the cocoa bean, white chocolate gets its flavor from milk. This lack of cocoa flavor means that some people don’t consider white chocolate to be true chocolate.

Popular Candy Makers Who Don’t Call Their White Chocolate “Chocolate”

Interestingly, some popular candy makers market their white chocolates without using the word “chocolate” on the label. For example, KitKat’s White Creme Bars are marketed as being made with “white creme filling” instead of white chocolate. And while M&M’s White Chocolate Candies do use the word “chocolate” on their label, they also clearly state that they are made with “vanilla flavored coating.” It seems that even some big-name candy makers are hesitant to call their white chocolates “chocolate.”

People are beginning to appreciate the delicate flavor of white chocolate. Made with cocoa butter, milk, and sugar, white chocolate has a creamy texture and a sweet flavor that is perfect for those who enjoy a less bitter taste.

So there you have it: everything you need to know about the great white chocolate debate. While there may always be debates over what constitutes “real” chocolate, one thing is for sure—white chocolate still has its place in the world of confections and desserts. Thanks to its unique taste and versatility, white chocolate is here to stay.