First 100% British chocolate bar made since 1932
A Century-Long Wait Ends for British Chocolate
Ninoda.com – For the first time in nearly a century, the first 100 British chocolate bar made has been created using exclusively domestic ingredients. Rather than importing cocoa beans from distant regions like Brazil or Bali, this remarkable confectionery was crafted entirely from beans cultivated in Berkshire. The creation, christened the Reading 100 Chocolate Bar, commemorates the centenary of the University of Reading and represents a significant milestone in British agricultural innovation.
This achievement marks the first instance since 1932 when Rowntree's presented a six-year-old Princess Elizabeth with the sole other example of UK-grown chocolate ever produced. The first 100 British chocolate bar made demonstrates that domestic cocoa production is not only possible but can yield high-quality results worthy of celebration.
A Student's Vision
Maha Khan, who is pursuing a master's degree in food security, brought this ambitious project to life. She managed every stage of production, from harvesting and fermenting to processing the cocoa that flourished in Reading. Her motivation extended beyond mere creation; she aimed to draw attention to the mounting difficulties confronting the global cocoa sector.
"It is incredible that we can make 100% British chocolate – but in the context of climate change, pests and diseases, there are estimates that 30 to 40% is lost."
She further explained that recent heatwaves and shifting climate patterns suggest these challenges will intensify in the coming years. The first 100 British chocolate bar made serves as both a celebration of academic achievement and a practical demonstration of sustainable food production.
The Quarantine Centre
The cocoa beans originated at the University of Reading's International Cocoa Quarantine Centre. This facility houses over three hundred distinct varieties of cocoa plants. Operated under strict climate control, the centre prevents cross-contamination of pests and diseases between international growing regions while enabling scientific research. [University of Reading](https://www.reading.ac.uk)
"It is the primary hub of transfer for 97% of cocoa growing countries," she noted. "So the coco is quarantined there for two years, and so from those plants that are growing I decided to make this chocolate bar."
Maha emphasized the importance of showcasing this research, which remains relatively unknown to the public. The quarantine centre's role in maintaining global cocoa health makes it an ideal location for producing the first 100 British chocolate bar made in modern times.
From Bean to Bar
The production journey involved meticulous steps. Maha collected the cocoa pods from the quarantine facility, extracted the beans, and removed the surrounding pulp. Fermentation lasted approximately seven to ten days before she spread the beans outdoors to dry under the sun, benefiting from particularly favorable weather conditions.
Subsequent stages included drying, roasting, and utilizing university laboratory equipment for winnowing, grinding, and crushing. Finally, she combined the processed cocoa with milk and sugar to complete the bar. "It's a lot of work," Maha remarked, acknowledging the effort required to create this historic confection.
Broader Implications
While the British chocolate industry generates £10.4 billion annually, it depends entirely on imported cocoa. Prof Carol Wagstaff, director of AgriFood Futures at the University of Reading, provided perspective on the global supply chain.
"The UK chocolate industry rests on a supply chain that starts thousands of miles away in the tropics of Africa, South America and Asia."
She highlighted that a stable international market benefits smallholder farmers who operate in areas highly vulnerable to climate risks, as well as British manufacturers and consumers. Although purchasing locally grown products supports health, economic growth, and environmental sustainability, she cautioned that this approach is not universally applicable.
"International trade in food can be a good thing, providing economic stability for communities whilst using natural energy resources for production, and we need to invest in research to keep threats at bay."
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy the first 100 British chocolate bar made?
The Reading 100 Chocolate Bar is available through the University of Reading's online store and select local retailers in Berkshire. [BBC News](https://www.bbc.co.uk/news)
How does the taste compare to imported chocolate?
Early tastings suggest a rich, nutty flavor profile with subtle fruity notes that distinguish it from conventional chocolate bars made with imported cocoa beans.
Is this chocolate bar available in other flavors?
Currently, only the original milk chocolate version has been produced, but plans are underway to create dark chocolate and white chocolate variations using the same British-grown cocoa.
The first 100 British chocolate bar made stands as both a celebration of academic achievement and a testament to the potential of domestic agricultural innovation. As climate challenges continue to affect global food supplies, projects like this demonstrate the importance of investing in local production capabilities and scientific research to ensure food security for future generations.