At Dolfin, we are committed to reducing food wastage and recognising the value of each morsel of chocolate. Did you know that, unlike other foods, chocolate does not, strictly speaking, “go out of date”? Even if the Minimum Durability Date (MDD) or ‘best before date’ indicated on the packaging has passed, your chocolate can still be consumed and does not present any danger to health.
Why doesn’t chocolate really go out of date?
Thanks to its low water content, chocolate is highly stable from a microbiological perspective. This means that if stored correctly, protected from humidity and odours, it can be enjoyed well after the date on the label. The MDD is merely a recommendation from the manufacturer to guarantee the best taste experience.
And what if the chocolate goes white?
The chocolate may appear white or dull over time. Nothing to worry about: this does not mean it is spoiled! This phenomenon is known as fat blooming (migration of fats) or sugar blooming (migration of sugars).
- Fat blooming: this happens when the fats from the cocoa butter rise to the surface, often caused by temperature variations.
- Sugar blooming: this happens when the chocolate is exposed to humidity, causing recrystallisation of the sugars.
In both cases, this occurrence does not alter the food safety or the organoleptic quality of the product. It is still completely edible.
How should you consume “out of date” chocolate?
If the visual aspect bothers you, the chocolate is perfectly suitable for use in delicious recipes: cakes, mousses, cookies and even chocolate sauces. These minor imperfections will disappear in the cooking process and you will rediscover all the intensity of flavour.
Some reassuring research
Scientific research has demonstrated that chocolate, even when consumed years after its manufacture, remains completely safe when stored in the correct conditions. This underpins our desire to raise awareness among consumers: don’t throw your chocolate away simply because it seems “old”!
Spreading a little joy for both you and the planet!
By adopting these good habits, you will contribute to a reduction in food waste while continuing to enjoy this exceptional product. At Dolfin, we firmly believe that no bar of chocolate deserves to be forgotten.
So, the next time you hesitate when faced with a bar at the back of your cupboard, remember: chocolate has a second life full of delicious flavours to enjoy!
