Just out, a hands-on exploratory site TheStoryofChocolate.com imparts the unique and delicious story of chocolate; created and released by the National Confectioners Association’s (NCA) Chocolate Council in time to honor American Chocolate Week, March 20-26. The all-new site unwraps the sweet story of chocolate, including a look at its natural origins and history, its connection to cocoa communities and its healthful properties.

The Story of Chocolate is a first-of-its-kind site, including interactive videos, picture galleries and fun-fact libraries compiled from chocolate and cocoa experts, cacao farmers, boutique chocolatiers and even large manufacturers from around the world.

“The site celebrates chocolate and allows visitors to explore the full life cycle of chocolate’s journey, beginning with its humble, natural origins from pods grown on fruit trees in the tropics, in order to build a better understanding of this unique food,” said Larry Graham, president of NCA.

The Story of Chocolate is a one-stop-shop to learn about the culture behind, and ongoing benefits of chocolate. The information is contained in four sections about chocolate:

1.   Where is it from?
2.   What is it?
3.   Who depends on it?
4.   Savor It.

To tell the complex story of chocolate, the site offers videos direct from cacao farmers in the field, updates on sustainable methods practiced around the world and even an informative video-short on the ingredients that make up chocolate hosted by Jacques Torres of Jacques Torres Chocolates, NY.

Visitors can also take a taste of the site to friends and family by using the step-by-step tips for hosting a chocolate tasting and experiencing the nuances of white, milk and dark chocolate. The Story of Chocolate brings ideas for enjoying this treasured treat, just in time for hosting a chocolate event or tasting in honor of American Chocolate Week.

About the National Confectioners Association (NCA): Founded in 1884 in Chicago by representatives of 69 confectionery manufacturing firms, the National Confectioners Association (NCA) is one of the oldest, most respected trade associations in the world. The NCA’s Chocolate Council was founded in 2008 by members of the trade association who process cocoa and make chocolate.

About the Chocolate Council of the National Confectioners Association (NCA): The Council focuses on opportunities to educate the public about the natural origins of chocolate and build a better understanding of this unique and special food.