On October 1, the world celebrates World Cocoa and Chocolate Day. This event was launched in 2010 by the French Chocolate Academy in Milan.

For the first time, the fruits of the chocolate tree began to be eaten in South America, about three and a half millennia ago. Then it was called “the food of the gods.” The Aztecs and Mayans consumed not only the beans themselves, but also the flesh of the fruit. It was crushed and left in the heat, waiting for fermentation. Then they drank this “bitter water”, which in their language sounded like “chocolatl”.

This drink, as well as cocoa beans themselves, came to Europe in the 16th century, after the discovery of America by Columbus. From Spain, the delicacy spread across the continent.

Celebrating this day, each country has the opportunity to showcase the best chocolate and cocoa bean products. Professional bakers present a wide range of pastries, cakes and delicacies. Exhibition fairs are held in various cities, where you can buy the most delicious chocolate treats.

Interesting Facts

• Cacao trees grow between 20 degrees south and north latitude.
• Trees can grow up to 200 years, but it is only possible to collect beans from them for 25 years – the rest of the time they give low-quality fruits.
• Cocoa beans were used by the Aztecs as a means of payment.
• The largest producers of cocoa are the countries of Africa and Asia.