Bournville (chocolate bar)

Bournville is a brand of dark chocolate produced by Cadbury, a subsidiary of Mondelez International. Named after the Bournville factory in Birmingham, England, where it was first made, the chocolate bar has become synonymous with rich, high-quality dark chocolate in many parts of the world. The Bournville brand represents not just a chocolate bar but also the heritage and craftsmanship associated with the Cadbury name.

History

The origins of Bournville chocolate trace back to the late 19th century, when George Cadbury decided to create a new type of chocolate to add to the company's existing range of cocoa and chocolate products. In 1908, the first Bournville chocolate bar was produced, offering a richer and more intense chocolate experience compared to the milk chocolates that Cadbury was known for. The name "Bournville" was chosen to reflect the model village of Bournville, which was developed by the Cadbury family for their workers, emphasizing the company's commitment to social welfare and quality living conditions for its employees.

Production

Bournville chocolate is made using a specific blend of cocoa beans, with an emphasis on creating a smooth, rich, and slightly bitter taste that is characteristic of dark chocolate. The cocoa beans are sourced from various countries, including Ghana, which has a long-standing relationship with Cadbury. The production process involves roasting the cocoa beans, grinding them into cocoa mass, and then mixing with cocoa butter and sugar to achieve the desired flavor and texture.

Varieties

Over the years, Cadbury has expanded the Bournville range to include various flavors and formats. Some of the popular varieties include:

• Bournville Classic – The original plain dark chocolate bar.
• Bournville Orange – Dark chocolate infused with real orange oil for a citrus twist.
• Bournville Cocoa – A product designed for baking, offering the rich Bournville taste in a cocoa powder form.

Cultural Impact

Bournville chocolate has not only been a popular choice among dark chocolate lovers but has also played a role in the cultural heritage of Birmingham and the UK. The Bournville village itself is a significant part of British industrial history, showcasing the philanthropic approach of the Cadbury family towards their workers. The brand has been part of various social and cultural events, including Christmas traditions where Bournville chocolate bars are a common gift.

See Also

• Cadbury
• Dark chocolate
• Mondelez International
• George Cadbury
• Cocoa bean