Cocoa and Chocolate: Their History from Plantation to Consumer by Arthur William Knapp is a comprehensive and informative read for anyone interested in the history and production process of cocoa and chocolate. The book delves into the origins of cocoa, tracing its cultivation and consumption from ancient civilizations to the present day.

Knapp provides a detailed overview of the entire production chain of cocoa and chocolate, from the cultivation of cacao beans on plantations to the processing and manufacturing of chocolate products. He covers the science behind the fermentation and roasting of cacao beans, as well as the various methods of chocolate making.

One of the strengths of this book is the way Knapp seamlessly weaves together historical anecdotes, scientific explanations, and practical insights into the world of cocoa and chocolate. Readers will come away with a newfound appreciation for the complexities of the chocolate industry and the importance of sustainable practices in cocoa cultivation.

Overall, Cocoa and Chocolate is a well-researched and engaging book that will appeal to both chocolate enthusiasts and those interested in the agricultural and economic aspects of the cocoa industry. It is a must-read for anyone curious about the journey of cocoa from the plantation to the consumer.

Book Description:

As that heavenly bit of chocolate melts in our mouths, we give little thought as to where it came from, the arduous work that went in to its creation, and the complex process of its maturation from a bean to the delicacy we all enjoy. This “little book” details everything you have ever wanted to know (and some things you never knew you wanted to know) about cocoa and chocolate from how the trees are planted and sustained to which countries produce the most cacao beans. Do cacao beans from various countries differ? What makes some types of chocolate higher quality than other kinds? Are there any health benefits to eating chocolate? Read on to learn the answers to these and many other questions about that wondrous little treat we call chocolate.