Buying chocolate online may seem simple, but attractive packaging does not tell the whole story. If you rely solely on the brand name, a discount or a flavour description, you could end up with a size that disappoints, overlook allergens or order a selection that is not suitable for the recipient.
When buying chocolate online, watch out for these three common pitfalls:
Milk chocolate contains milk ingredients and generally has a milder, sweeter flavour. Product information often states a minimum percentage of cocoa solids. For example, Tony’s Chocolonely Milk Chocolate weighing 180 grams states that it contains at least 32% cocoa solids.
Dark chocolate usually contains more cocoa solids and fewer milk ingredients. As a result, the flavour can be stronger and less sweet. The Tony’s Chocolonely Pure 70% Dark Chocolate states that it contains at least 70% cocoa in the product description. Always check the current packaging when buying, as product information may change.
A middle ground is dark milk chocolate. Tony’s Chocolonely Dark Milk Chocolate weighing 180 grams states that it contains at least 42% cocoa solids. This could suit anyone who wants to combine the creaminess of milk chocolate with a more pronounced cocoa flavour.
Do not compare only the price of chocolate bars. Also consider the weight per pack. A 90 or 100 gram bar is suitable for a small treat or a modest gift. A bar weighing 150 to 200 grams makes more sense for sharing, baking or several portions.
The filling also makes a difference. With chocolate containing hazelnuts, caramel or nougat, it is useful to check how much of the ingredient is actually in the product. Tony’s Chocolonely Milk Hazelnut states that it contains 10% hazelnuts. Ritter Sport Honey Salt Almond states that it contains 20% almonds in the honey-coated almond pieces. Tony’s Chocolonely Milk Caramel Seasalt contains 10% caramel pieces and 0.5% sea salt.
This helps prevent a flavour from being made to seem more prominent on the front of the pack than the actual quantity of that ingredient in the bar.
Read the allergen information before ordering, particularly when buying a chocolate selection with different fillings. Common allergens listed include:
According to the product information, Lindt Lindor Milk Chocolate contains, among other things, milk, soya, cereals containing gluten and barley. Toblerone Milk Almond Nougat contains milk, almonds, eggs and soya. When buying a gift, it is therefore sensible not only to look at the packaging, but also to check the ingredients list online.
Store chocolate according to the instructions on the label: in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and away from heat sources and moisture. The exact best-before information is shown on the packaging. It is better not to use damaged packaging.
Why it suits this profile: The 90 gram size keeps the purchase manageable and is suitable as a small treat or as an introduction to Belgian milk chocolate.
The product page clearly states the weight, the type of milk chocolate and at least 32% cocoa solids. This means you do not have to rely solely on the packaging.
90 grams; at least 32% cocoa solids; ingredients and allergens listed.
Why it suits this profile: This Swiss chocolate combines a milk chocolate shell with a soft, melting filling. It is well suited to a gift or a relaxed moment of indulgence.
The filling is described explicitly and the net weight is 100 grams. However, do check the allergens, including milk, soya and cereals containing gluten.
100 grams; Swiss milk chocolate; soft, melting filling according to the product description.
Why it suits this profile: The large bar is practical for sharing, a film night or use in a chocolate selection featuring bold flavours.
The ingredients list specifies 10% caramel pieces and 0.5% sea salt. You therefore know which flavour components you are buying, rather than relying solely on “caramel and sea salt”.
180 grams; at least 32% cocoa solids; caramel pieces and sea salt; suitable for sharing.
Why it suits this profile: The box contains six small bars, including milk chocolate, dark chocolate, nougat, salted caramel, hazelnuts and salted almonds. Ideal for sharing or sampling.
The variety is described in clear terms. Before giving it as a gift, however, check the information on nuts, milk, soya and eggs, as not every recipient can eat the same ingredients.
288 grams; six small bars; multiple flavours; suitable as a chocolate gift.
We have put together a complete, up-to-date list of products that fully meet these strict selection criteria and the applicable European safety regulations.
The origin can help you choose, but it is no substitute for checking the ingredients list. Belgian chocolate, for example, is represented in this selection by Tony’s Chocolonely. Toblerone and Milka state that they are made in Switzerland or use Swiss milk chocolate in their product information. There are also international options, such as Chocodate with dates and almonds or Meiji Milk & Strawberry Chocolate from the Japanese range.
Choose based on how you will actually use it:
It depends on the product, pack size and any temporary offer. Always compare the price per 100 grams, delivery costs and total weight. A multipack may sometimes appear cheaper, but it is only worthwhile if you will use or share the entire quantity.
The best-before date is shown on the packaging. Store chocolate in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Chocolate may become softer during delivery on hot days, so check on arrival that the packaging is intact and follow the manufacturer’s storage instructions.
A chocolate selection with several flavours is practical when you do not know the recipient’s preferences precisely. However, check the allergens beforehand. For one specific flavour, you can choose a bar weighing 90 to 100 grams; for sharing, a pack of 180 grams or more is more suitable.