Context

Chocolate is one of the most popular candies in the world. Each year, residents of the United States collectively eat more than 2.8 billions pounds. However, not all chocolate bars are created equal! This dataset contains expert ratings of over 1,700 individual chocolate bars, along with information on their regional origin, percentage of cocoa, the variety of chocolate bean used and where the beans were grown.

Flavors of Cacao Rating System:

• 5= Elite (Transcending beyond the ordinary limits)
• 4= Premium (Superior flavor development, character and style)
• 3= Satisfactory(3.0) to praiseworthy(3.75) (well made with special qualities)
• 2= Disappointing (Passable but contains at least one significant flaw)
• 1= Unpleasant (mostly unpalatable)

Each chocolate is evaluated from a combination of both objective qualities and subjective interpretation. A rating here only represents an experience with one bar from one batch. Batch numbers, vintages and review dates are included in the database when known.

The database is narrowly focused on plain dark chocolate with an aim of appreciating the flavors of the cacao when made into chocolate. The ratings do not reflect health benefits, social missions, or organic status.

Flavor is the most important component of the Flavors of Cacao ratings. Diversity, balance, intensity and purity of flavors are all considered. It is possible for a straight forward single note chocolate to rate as high as a complex flavor profile that changes throughout. Genetics, terroir, post harvest techniques, processing and storage can all be discussed when considering the flavor component.

Texture has a great impact on the overall experience and it is also possible for texture related issues to impact flavor. It is a good way to evaluate the makers vision, attention to detail and level of proficiency.

Aftermelt is the experience after the chocolate has melted. Higher quality chocolate will linger and be long lasting and enjoyable. Since the aftermelt is the last impression you get from the chocolate, it receives equal importance in the overall rating.

Overall Opinion is really where the ratings reflect a subjective opinion. Ideally it is my evaluation of whether or not the components above worked together and an opinion on the flavor development, character and style. It is also here where each chocolate can usually be summarized by the most prominent impressions that you would remember about each chocolate.

Acknowledgements

These ratings were compiled by Brady Brelinski, Founding Member of the Manhattan Chocolate Society. For up-to-date information, as well as additional content (including interviews with craft chocolate makers), please see his website: Flavors of Cacao

Inspiration

• Where are the best cocoa beans grown?
• Which countries produce the highest-rated bars?
• What’s the relationship between cocoa solids percentage and rating?

Snickers is among the most well-known chocolate & candy bar brand in the United States. Around 93 percent of internet respondents are aware of Snickers. Hershey's, KitKat, Twix, and Reese's, were similarly known among the U.S. online population.For this study, brand awareness was surveyed employing the concept of aided brand recognition, showing respondents both the brand's logo and the written brand name. Interested in more detailed results covering all brands of this ranking and many more? Explore Brand Profiles. These statistics show the results of the Statista Consumer Insights Brand KPIs.

The source of this data comes from: Flavors of Cacao Updated on February 2, 2025

Ingredients column ("#" = represents the number of ingredients in the chocolate; B = Beans, S = Sugar, S* = Sweetener other than white cane or beet sugar, C = Cocoa Butter, V = Vanilla, L = Lecithin, Sa = Salt)

Most Memorable Characteristics column is a summary review of the most memorable characteristics of that bar. Terms generally relate to anything from texture, flavor, overall opinion, etc.

This statistic displays the ranking of chocolate bar brands in France in 2023, by number of consumers. During the survey period, it was found that approximately *** million people consumed Milka chocolate bars.

Context Chocolate is one of the most popular candies in the world. Each year, residents of the United States collectively eat more than 2.8 billions pounds. However, not all chocolate bars are created equal! This dataset contains expert ratings of over 1,700 individual chocolate bars, along with information on their regional origin, percentage of cocoa, the variety of chocolate bean used and where the beans were grown.

Flavors of Cacao Rating System: 5= Elite (Transcending beyond the ordinary limits) 4= Premium (Superior flavor development, character and style) 3= Satisfactory(3.0) to praiseworthy(3.75) (well made with special qualities) 2= Disappointing (Passable but contains at least one significant flaw) 1= Unpleasant (mostly unpalatable) Each chocolate is evaluated from a combination of both objective qualities and subjective interpretation. A rating here only represents an experience with one bar from one batch. Batch numbers, vintages and review dates are included in the database when known.

The database is narrowly focused on plain dark chocolate with an aim of appreciating the flavors of the cacao when made into chocolate. The ratings do not reflect health benefits, social missions, or organic status.

Flavor is the most important component of the Flavors of Cacao ratings. Diversity, balance, intensity and purity of flavors are all considered. It is possible for a straight forward single note chocolate to rate as high as a complex flavor profile that changes throughout. Genetics, terroir, post harvest techniques, processing and storage can all be discussed when considering the flavor component.

Texture has a great impact on the overall experience and it is also possible for texture related issues to impact flavor. It is a good way to evaluate the makers vision, attention to detail and level of proficiency.

Aftermelt is the experience after the chocolate has melted. Higher quality chocolate will linger and be long lasting and enjoyable. Since the aftermelt is the last impression you get from the chocolate, it receives equal importance in the overall rating.

Overall Opinion is really where the ratings reflect a subjective opinion. Ideally it is my evaluation of whether or not the components above worked together and an opinion on the flavor development, character and style. It is also here where each chocolate can usually be summarized by the most prominent impressions that you would remember about each chocolate.

Acknowledgements These ratings were compiled by Brady Brelinski, Founding Member of the Manhattan Chocolate Society. For up-to-date information, as well as additional content (including interviews with craft chocolate makers), please see his website: Flavors of Cacao

Inspiration Where are the best cocoa beans grown? Which countries produce the highest-rated bars? What’s the relationship between cocoa solids percentage and rating?

During a survey in the summer of 2024, about 72 percent of respondents who consumed chocolate and candy bars stated that they had eaten Cadbury chocolate in the past year. Galaxy was the next frequently consumed bar. Of the responding consumers in the UK, 57 percent consumed Galaxy. Sales of chocolate in the UK There are hundreds of enterprises involved in the manufacturing of cocoa, chocolate, and sugar confectionery in the UK. About ten of these enterprises have a turnover of more than 50 million British pounds, while approximately 20 have a turnover between 10 million and 49.9 million British pounds. The sales volume of chocolate in the UK amounts to approximately 115,643 tons. This marks a decrease compared to 2018, when a peak volume of 146,517 tons of chocolate was sold. Nonetheless, the sales value of chocolate bars manufactured in the UK is at its highest since 2008. Approximately 498 million British pounds' worth of chocolate manufactured by UK companies is sold annually. Chocolate consumers Many people in the UK enjoy eating chocolate, as reflected in the attitudes of British consumers toward chocolate and candy bars. About 39 percent of consumers in the UK state that they cannot imagine their life without chocolate and candy bar products. A similar proportion of consumers say they rely on brands they know and trust when it comes to chocolate and candy bar products. The leading chocolate brand in the UK in terms of sales is Cadbury Dairy Milk. The Mondelez-owned brand sells approximately 680 million British pounds' worth of chocolate annually, which is more than three times the sales of its two biggest competitors, Galaxy and Maltesers. Cadbury is also one of the leading chocolate and candy bar brands in terms of brand awareness in the UK. About 95 percent of British consumers recognize the brand. KitKat, Snickers, and Twix are also recognized by the same proportion of consumers.

Dataset

This dataset was created by Reena Pinto

Contents

KitKat, Snickers, Twix, and Cadbury go head-to-head when it comes to being the most well-known chocolate brand in the UK. All these brands are recognized by 95 percent of respondents or more, with KitKat edging out a win at 96 percent. Brands like Green & Black's and Tony's Chocolonely, on the other hand, lie at the bottom of this list, being recognized by less than 72 percent of respondents in the United Kingdom. For this study, brand awareness was surveyed employing the concept of aided brand recognition, showing respondents both the brand's logo and the written brand name.

This statistic displays the ranking of chocolate bar brand types in France in 2023, by number of consumers. In 2023, was found that approximately *** million people consumed hyper or supermarket brands of chocolate bars.

Forecast: Solid Chocolate Bars Consumption by Households in the UK 2024 - 2028 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

Candy Bar Market Outlook

The global candy bar market size was valued at USD 52.8 billion in 2023 and is anticipated to reach USD 74.4 billion by 2032, exhibiting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 3.8% during the forecast period. The rising consumer preference for convenient, on-the-go snacks and the increasing demand for premium and organic products are key factors driving this growth. Additionally, the expanding retail industry and evolving consumer tastes and preferences are expected to further bolster market expansion.

One of the primary growth drivers of the candy bar market is the increasing demand for convenient and portable snack options. With urbanization and busier lifestyles, consumers are increasingly seeking snacks that are easy to carry and consume on the go. Candy bars perfectly fit this requirement, making them a popular choice among both children and adults. Moreover, the rising disposable income in emerging economies has led to an increase in consumer spending on indulgent products, further boosting the candy bar market.

The trend towards health and wellness has led to a significant shift in the candy bar market. Consumers are becoming more health-conscious and are seeking products with natural ingredients, low sugar content, and added health benefits. This has resulted in the growth of organic and functional candy bars, which offer healthier alternatives to traditional candy bars. Manufacturers are increasingly focusing on product innovation, introducing new flavors, and incorporating healthier ingredients to cater to this growing demand.

The rise of e-commerce and digital retail channels has also played a crucial role in the growth of the candy bar market. Online stores offer consumers a wide range of products and the convenience of home delivery, which has led to an increase in online candy bar purchases. Additionally, digital marketing and social media have enabled manufacturers to reach a broader audience and engage with consumers more effectively. The ability to offer personalized experiences and promotions through online platforms is further driving market growth.

Regionally, North America holds the largest share of the candy bar market, driven by high consumer spending and the presence of established players. However, the Asia Pacific region is expected to witness the highest growth rate during the forecast period. The increasing population, rising disposable income, and growing retail sector in countries like China and India are key factors contributing to this growth. Additionally, the cultural inclination towards confectionery products in this region presents significant opportunities for market expansion.

Product Type Analysis

The candy bar market is segmented based on product type into four main categories: chocolate bars, non-chocolate bars, organic bars, and others. Chocolate bars dominate the market due to their widespread popularity and extensive product range. The rich taste, variety of flavors, and cultural acceptance of chocolate bars make them a perennial favorite among consumers globally. Leading companies continually innovate by introducing new flavors, limited editions, and premium offerings to maintain consumer interest and market dominance.

Non-chocolate bars also occupy a significant segment of the market. These include candy bars made from nuts, fruits, and other ingredients that do not contain chocolate. This segment caters to consumers looking for alternatives to chocolate and those with dietary restrictions or allergies. The growing awareness of healthy eating habits has propelled the demand for non-chocolate bars that offer lower calorie counts and incorporate natural ingredients.

Organic bars have emerged as a rapidly growing segment within the candy bar market. These bars are made from organic, non-GMO ingredients and cater to health-conscious consumers seeking healthier snack options. The increased focus on clean labels and transparency in ingredient sourcing has pushed manufacturers to develop organic candy bars. This segment is expected to witness robust growth as consumer awareness and demand for organic products continue to rise.

The "others" category includes specialty and niche candy bars that do not fit into the mainstream segments. This comprises a diverse range of products catering to specific consumer preferences and dietary needs, such as vegan, gluten-free, and high-protein bars. The rise of personalized nutrition and the evolving consumer palate are driving the growth of this segment, with manufacturer

In 2024, the Azerbaijani chocolate bar with filling market increased by 3.2% to $69M, rising for the third consecutive year after two years of decline. The market value increased at an average annual rate of +1.4% over the period from 2012 to 2024; the trend pattern remained relatively stable, with only minor fluctuations in certain years. Over the period under review, the market reached the maximum level in 2024 and is expected to retain growth in years to come.

The global vegan carob chocolate bar market is projected to grow from USD 237 million in 2025 to USD 714 million by 2033, exhibiting a CAGR of 14.2% during the forecast period. The rising prevalence of veganism, coupled with increasing health consciousness among consumers, is driving the market growth. Additionally, the growing demand for plant-based alternatives to conventional chocolate is creating lucrative opportunities for manufacturers. Key market trends include the increasing popularity of e-commerce channels, the expansion of the product portfolio with innovative flavors, and the growing emphasis on sustainable packaging. However, challenges such as the high cost of production and the limited availability of raw materials may hinder the market's growth to some extent. The market is dominated by major players such as Naturell, Nestle, Coca-Cola, General Mills, Alter Eco, Chocolove, Missy J's, D&D Chocolates, Equal Exchange, and Eating Evolved. These companies are focusing on product innovation, strategic partnerships, and geographical expansion to maintain their market share.

The Dutch chocolate bar with filling market reached $300M in 2024, stabilizing at the previous year. In general, consumption, however, showed a slight increase. Over the period under review, the market attained the maximum level in 2024 and is expected to retain growth in the near future.

Considering the ** different brands presented in this statistic, 'Kinder Bueno' leads the French ranking for the most frequently selected brand with *** million people. Contrastingly, 'Lindt Sensation Crispy Billes' is ranked last, with ***** thousand people. Their difference, compared to the Kinder Bueno, lies at *** million people.

According to the Cognitive Market Research Report, the Cocoa and Chocolate Market size in 2023 was XX Million and is projected to have a compounded annual growth rate of XX% from 2024 to 2033. The key driver of this market is health benefits offered by cocoa and chocolates and the key opportunity is reaching out to untapped emerging economies. In 2023, filled chocolates held the biggest market share. The increased popularity of filled chocolates such as truffles and bonbons indicates that customers are seeking a novel way to enjoy their favourite indulgence making it a dominant chocolate type than others. In 2023, butter held the biggest market share. The increased usage of cocoa butter in the cosmetic sector for the creation of skincare and food items, together with a rising desire for natural cosmetics among key consumers, is expected to increase demand for cocoa butter. Europe dominates the global market, accounting for USD XX billion in 2023. Many of the world's main industrial chocolate makers are headquartered in Europe, including Belgium, the Netherlands, Germany, and Switzerland. The region is a major producer and consumer of chocolate and related items. The European cocoa market is quite diversified, with European purchasers sourcing cocoa beans of varying quality and origins to fulfill the demands of the cocoa and chocolate sectors. The competitive landscape analysis of the Cocoa and Chocolate market is primarily concerned with expanding the global growth of the cocoa and chocolate industries through new product innovation, business expansion, and the growing presence of a variety of manufacturers operating in the cocoa and chocolate sectors, which has resulted in increased market demand.

Market Dynamics of Cocoa And Chocolate Industry

Key Driver of Cocoa And Chocolate Market

Health benefits offered by cocoa and chocolates drive the market growth.

Chocolate is a product made with cocoa as a main component. Cocoa contains many polyphenols, particularly flavonoids, which have a high antioxidant activity. According to reports, cocoa contains around 6 - 8% polyphenols by dry weight. The flavonoids are responsible for the health advantages of cocoa and chocolate. Moreover, Cocoa has more flavonoids than tea or red wine. A high concentration of flavonoids boosts advantages in a variety of health-related conditions, including heart disease, cancer, stroke, insulin-dependent disorders, vascular diseases, and many more. Cocoa beans, particularly cocoa powders, are high in flavonoids, a kind of polyphenol that exists naturally. Many studies show that eating foods high in flavonoids or antioxidants reduces the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. Several studies show that consuming cocoa products is helpful to cardiovascular health. Cocoa's high polyphenol content gives it a broad range of disease prevention and health advantages. Aside from cardiovascular disease, cocoa is effective against a variety of other ailments like diabetes, and inflammatory illnesses. On the other hand, intake of chocolate improves blood flow and reduces blood pressure. It also boosts HDL and shields LDL from oxidation. Chocolate consumption may reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, as well as improve cognitive performance. However, further study is needed, and chocolate may have some detrimental health consequences. Regular intake of PS and CF chocolate bars as part of a low-fat diet may benefit cardiovascular health by decreasing cholesterol and improving blood pressure. Harvard Medical School researchers hypothesized that drinking two cups of hot chocolate per day might help maintain brain health and slow memory impairment in the elderly. The researchers discovered that hot chocolate improved blood flow to critical brain areas. For instance, THEO Chocolate Sea Salt Organic Dark Chocolate Bar is one brand that provides health benefits. With 70% cacao, people can enjoy the delightful sea salt flavour while benefiting from the healthful antioxidants. The brand is also available in delightful flavours such as citrus and caramel bars. (Source: https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/healthy-eating/g25728973/healthy-chocolate-bars-snacks/#:~:text=THEO%20Chocolate%20Sea%20Salt%20Organic%20Dark%20Chocolate%20Bar,-%2449%20at%20Amazon&text=Clocking%20in%20at%2070%25%20cacao,like%20citrus%20and%20caramel%20bars.)

Rising culture of ...

The global vegan chocolate bar market is experiencing robust growth, driven by the increasing popularity of veganism and flexitarianism, heightened consumer awareness of health and sustainability, and the rising demand for plant-based alternatives to traditional confectionery. The market size in 2025 is estimated at $2.5 billion, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors: a wider range of appealing flavors and textures in vegan chocolate bars, increased availability in various retail channels (supermarkets, convenience stores, and online sales), and the strategic marketing efforts of established and emerging brands. The market segmentation reveals strong performance across fruit, nut, and other ingredient-based bars, with supermarkets maintaining a dominant share in the distribution channel. This significant expansion is not without its challenges. Price sensitivity amongst consumers, competition from established chocolate manufacturers, and potential fluctuations in the supply chain for raw materials like cocoa and alternative milk sources present some obstacles to market growth. However, continuous innovation in product formulations, including the development of more sustainable and ethically sourced ingredients, along with expanding consumer education on the benefits of veganism, positions the market for continued expansion throughout the forecast period. The major players, including Alter Eco, Chocolove, and others, are actively engaged in expanding their product lines and market reach to capitalize on this growth opportunity. Geographical analysis suggests strong potential in North America and Europe, but emerging markets in Asia-Pacific and other regions are also showing significant promise. The market's future trajectory hinges upon continued innovation, effective marketing strategies, and the sustained growth of the global vegan consumer base.

Forecast: Filled Chocolate Bars Consumption by Households in the UK 2024 - 2028 Discover more data with ReportLinker!

Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Market size was valued at USD 14.98 Billion in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 26.40 Billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 9.94% during the forecast period 2026-2032.Global Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Market DriversThe market drivers for the Bean-to-Bar Chocolate Market can be influenced by various factors. These may include:Increasing Preference of Customers for High-End and Handcrafted Goods: The bean-to-bar chocolate market has been significantly fueled by rising consumer demand for premium, ethically sourced, and artisanal chocolates. Chocolates with distinctive flavour characteristics and environmentally friendly sourcing methods might command a higher price from consumers.Health Consciousness and Demand for Organic and Fair Trade Products: Consumers are becoming more conscious of the advantages dark chocolate has for their health as well as the significance of fair trade and organic certification. To meet this desire, bean-to-bar chocolate producers frequently place a high priority on using organic cocoa beans and fair trade methods.Emergence of Small-Batch Production and Craft Chocolate Makers: The market for bean-to-bar chocolate has expanded due in part to the emergence of small-batch production facilities and artisan chocolatiers. To appeal to discriminating customers looking for distinctive and genuine chocolate experiences, these craftsmen place a strong emphasis on quality, flavour diversity, and direct sourcing partnerships with cocoa producers.Growing Interest in Single-Origin and Flavour Varieties: As consumers' knowledge of chocolate's provenance and subtle flavour profiles expands, so does the market for single-origin and flavoured bean-to-bar chocolates. Chocolate lovers look for goods that highlight the unique qualities of cacao beans from certain areas, which has caused the market to overflow with origin-focused items.Extension of Online Retailing and Distribution Channels: To reach a larger audience, bean-to-bar chocolate producers are utilising a variety of distribution channels, such as specialty shops, internet platforms, and direct-to-consumer sales. The expansion of online shopping has made artisanal chocolates more widely available to consumers globally, giving smaller manufacturers a chance to compete with more well-known names.Product Development and Packaging Innovations: Developing new product formulas, flavour combinations, and packaging designs on a constant basis is essential to capturing consumer attention and expanding the market. Manufacturers of bean-to-bar chocolate frequently experiment with unusual additives, like fruits, spices, and sweeteners, to develop fresh flavour profiles and set their goods apart from competitors.Culture Shift: Consumers are prioritising sustainability and ethical sourcing techniques as a result of growing awareness of environmental and social issues related to the chocolate business, such as child labour, deforestation, and fair remuneration for farmers. Bean-to-bar chocolate producers appeal to ethical customers by stressing supply chain transparency and their dedication to social and environmental responsibility.

The industry has experienced significant growth in recent years, propelled by changing consumer preferences and innovative product developments. The sector has remained popular despite challenges like fluctuating cocoa prices and ever-growing health consciousness. Companies have adapted by introducing new flavors, healthier options and sustainable practices, appealing to a broader audience. This adaptability has kept consumer interest alive and expanded market reach, ensuring the chocolate production industry remains a crucial contributor to the US economy. Still, industry-wide revenue is projected to shrink at a CAGR of 1.0% over the five years through 2025. In the current year, revenue is expected to dip by an estimated 1.4% to a total of $22.0 billion. Several trends have influenced the industry's performance in recent years. The rising demand for dark and organic chocolate reflects a shift towards healthier eating, with consumers seeking products that offer nutritional benefits without compromising taste. A strong emphasis on sustainability and ethical sourcing has become essential, with more brands adopting fair trade practices and eco-friendly packaging. Technological advancements have also enhanced production efficiency and ensured consistent quality. Also, e-commerce has reshaped sales channels, with online shopping and direct-to-consumer models becoming increasingly popular, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Looking forward, the chocolate production industry is set for continued growth and transformation, with revenue forecast to expand at a CAGR of 1.0% over the five years to 2030 to a total of $23.2 billion. The trend towards health-conscious consumption is expected to persist, driving demand for innovative products that blend indulgence with nutritional benefits. Sustainability will remain a key focus, with companies likely to invest in ethical sourcing and environmentally friendly practices. Technological innovations will continue to improve production capabilities and supply chain efficiency. Expanding e-commerce and digital marketing will attract new customers and foster brand loyalty. The US chocolate production industry is poised to thrive, adapting to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics.