Why US chocolate tastes weird to the rest of the world DW 07/07/2025
Briefly

Chocolate flavors differ vastly between the US and Europe, with US versions being sweeter and often containing additives that some European consumers find off-putting. The history of chocolate in the US can be traced back to Latin American drinks during the 17th century, evolving significantly with the introduction of Swiss methods in the 19th century. European chocolate adheres to stricter quality standards, focusing on taste and traditional preparation methods, leading to a rising appreciation for fine chocolate in the region despite the continued popularity of milk chocolate.
Consumer preferences are diverse, with US chocolate often being sweeter and using ingredients like butyric acid, corn syrup, and vegetable fats that appeal to American tastes.
Swiss and US chocolates differ significantly in flavor, with US chocolates having a slightly sour note due to butyric acid, unsettling for European palates.
In Western Europe, especially in Switzerland, Belgium, France, and Germany, the focus on fine taste and high quality results in traditional recipes that adhere to strict EU regulations.
The appreciation for good chocolate is growing in Europe, though milk chocolate remains the most consumed due to deep-rooted childhood preferences.
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