A Short Guide on Chocolate Percentage And What It Means

For those of us who browse the chocolate sections at grocery stores or perhaps local chocolatiers, stumbling across a bar of chocolate with a chocolate percentage printed on the packaging might be something you’re familiar with.

For true chocolate lovers, you might be aware of the fact that dark chocolate has a higher cocoa percentage than milk chocolate. However, the technicalities behind the term “chocolate percentage” is something you might not know.

If you’re looking to know more about what this term involves, you’ve come to the right place!

The experts at Melt have put together a short guide on chocolate percentage and what it means, so the next time you’re buying chocolate, you can get something that best suits your palate.

Let’s get started!

What Does Chocolate Percentage Mean?

Every chocolatier or shop has its own preference when it comes to cocoa percentages for their chocolate bars. There’s no specific bracket or fit category that they need to fall in to.

However, there’s no need for you to be confused by all the different percentages – they simply refer to the amount of cocoa the chocolatier has chosen to use in their bar.

The cocoa percentage shows the number of cocoa solids used in the bar to flavour it – a dark chocolate percentage would be on the higher end of the scale, whereas a milk chocolate percentage would be on the lower end. 

As a general note, a typical bar of chocolate contains a few ingredients, which include cocoa solids, cocoa butter, sugar, and a binding agent.  Additionally, the chocolate percentage can also serve as an indicator of taste. A lower percentage usually means that there’s a lot of sugar going into the making of the bar.

How Do I Understand Which Cocoa Percentage Is The Best For Me?

To truly appreciate the taste of chocolate, the lower the sugar content, the more you will get to experience the ingredient for what it really is. 

The nuanced notes of the cocoa bean can truly shine through without lots of additional ingredient embellishments. However, if you’re simply looking to understand which percentage works best for you, read on to find out more.

• Dark Chocolate – For lovers of dark chocolate, 70% cocoa solids is a good option to go for, as it lets you taste the subtle yet bold flavours of the cocoa bean. Above that, for example an 85% or perhaps even a 100% bar, would let you experience more impactful and punchy flavours.
• Milk Chocolate – For those who prefer the sweetness and familiarity of milk chocolate, anything between 20% – 40% will do the trick. This lets the delicate cocoa shine through, without the powerful intensity that a dark chocolate bar has.
• White Chocolate – White chocolate doesn’t have the presence of cocoa solids but it does have cocoa butter. The butter is what gives it that smooth and delicious taste and anything above a 20% cocoa butter content will do the trick.

Since the government also has its own legal requirements for the minimum chocolate percentage, companies usually either stick to that or go beyond it to enhance their flavours and textures.

Depending on your preferred type of chocolate, you’ll be able to find a percentage that suits your taste.

Does The Cocoa Percentage Affect The Taste Of The Chocolate?

In simple words, yes, the cocoa percentage affects the taste of your chocolate. When you consider a dark chocolate bar that is over 85%, you’re assured of a savoury and rich tasting bar. Similarly, a minimum percentage ensures adherence to the government standards and also contributes greatly to the overall flavour and texture of a bar.

Ultimately, the decision will vary from person to person, as we all have different tastes – the choice in selecting the right cocoa percentage is yours.

Visit Melt For The Best Gourmet Chocolates

Now that you know about chocolate percentages and what they mean, indulge in the best, luxurious, gourmet chocolate experience with Melt.

Our chocolatiers have curated an excellent collection of fresh chocolates, bars, and sweet treats that make our chocolate shine. If you’re looking for indulgent chocolates, any one of our products will be perfect for you.

Explore our collection to place your order today!

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