Chocolate: The Consuming Passion

I have found a most fabulous book. I know not how I've managed to live almost 30 years without knowing that it exists. This book which according to the cover was written, illustrated, and over-researched by Sandra Boynton is indeed the most thorough guide that "answers every intelligent question about chocolate." The book is populated by cute hippos, rabbits, bunnies,piggies, and very helpful little charts, graphics, and myth-debunking data that are perfect for the Chocolate Elite -- "the select millions who like chocolate in all its infinite variety, using 'like' as in 'I like to breathe.'"

In the effort to share with you unfortunate souls who have not seen this book, I will try to post images and excerpts from this book. You will love this as much as I do.

The true connoisseur of chocolate shuns all chocolate novelty in favor of the uncompromised bittersweet experience. This is the gourmet.

At the other extreme is the individual who will embrace chocolate in any form: the gourmand.

And right in the middle of the field is she who is partial always to the gentleness and variety of milk chocolate: the gourmoo.

Some of the great research data presented in Chocolate: The Consuming Passion include the presentations and debunkings of a variety of myths about chocolate. I present to you, here, now, Myth No.2

Myth No. 2: "Chocolate is Fattening."

A crucial factor has been overlooked in this widespread condemnation of chocolate: Most chocolate eaters tend to supplement their chocolate intake with other foods. By what right, what logic can chocolate be singled out as the cause of plumpness? How can we be certain, say, carrots are not a catalyst to weight-gain when chocolate is present?

And there is empirical evidence that also raises serious doubts about chocolate's fatteningness: Few chocolate lovers can simply lie back and wait for chocolate to come to them. For most, getting and keeping chocolate often requires strenuous physical work.

Selected Average Caloric Expenditures Related to the Routine Pursuit and Maintenance of Personal Chocolate Resources

Activity: Carrying seven pounds of chocolate from store to residence
Caloric Expenditure: 359

Activity: Hiding all chocolate before answering door when company drops by unexpectedly
Caloric Expenditure: 744

Activity: Swimming to Switzerland
Caloric Expenditure: 497,562 (approx.)

More to come. Next week: How to Make Chocolate Stains Disappear