薄荷巧克力风潮：甜品界的“折耳根”现象
In the sweltering heat of summer, a peculiar trend has taken the food industry by storm: mint chocolate, a combination once maligned for its toothpaste flavor is now the talk of the town. From ice cream to milk, and from pastries to beverages, the mint chocolate flavor has found its way into a myriad of products, becoming a sensation that’s dividing palates and sparking conversations.
The Rise of Mint Chocolate
The pairing of mint and chocolate isn’t new. In 1939, the American cookie brand Girl Scouts introduced mint chocolate cookies, a combination that remains popular to this day. Similarly, Baskin-Robbins, an American ice cream brand, introduced mint chocolate ice cream several years later. However, it wasn’t until 2021 that mint chocolate gained widespread popularity in South Korea, igniting a debate among young people about whether they loved or hated the flavor.
Why the Sudden Popularity?
The reasons behind the sudden surge in popularity are varied. For one, mint offers a cooling sensation, which is particularly appealing during the hot summer months. The minty cool isn’t actually lowering the temperature of the mouth; instead, it activates specific nerve receptors that create the sensation of coolness. This has made mint products a hit as people seek ways to beat the heat.
Moreover, the visual appeal of mint chocolate products cannot be overlooked. The refreshing mint green color is not only pleasing to the eye but also provides a visual cooling effect. Additionally, the mint green and black color scheme, popularized by this year’s fashion trends, has seamlessly translated into the food industry.
Beyond Taste: A Social Phenomenon
However, the mint chocolate craze extends beyond just food. It has become a social identifier, dividing people into two camps: those who love it and those who don’t. This division mirrors other food debates, such as whether to eat cilantro, suanmi (a type of Chinese herb), sweet or savory soy milk, and meat or vegetarian dumplings. The mint chocolate phenomenon has turned into a salt vs. sugar debate, with each side passionate about their stance.
The Mint Chocolate Market
Several brands have jumped on the mint chocolate bandwagon. Ice cream brands like DQ, Sophia, and Magnum have introduced mint chocolate flavors. Green箭 and Dove have even collaborated to launch a mint chocolate ice cream available in convenience stores. Additionally, brands like Bessie’s and MoreYogurt have introduced mint chocolate beverages and desserts.
However, not everyone is a fan. Some find the flavor reminiscent of toothpaste or minty products, making it unappetizing. Moreover, the blue-green color of mint chocolate products can actually suppress appetite, as studies have shown that primates have a higher preference for red foods and are less inclined to consume blue foods.
Real-Life Reception
Despite the buzz online, the real-life reception of mint chocolate products is mixed. Many people haven’t tried or even heard of them. A survey among friends and colleagues revealed that most haven’t tasted mint chocolate products, and online searches show that they are primarily available in convenience stores and bakeries.
In conclusion, the mint chocolate trend is a curious blend of taste, fashion, and social identity. While it may not be for everyone, its popularity in the food industry shows no signs of waning. Whether it’s seen as a delightful treat or a peculiar flavor, mint chocolate has certainly made its mark as the toothpaste of the dessert world.
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