Mint chocolate, once criticized for its toothpaste taste, has recently emerged as a trendy new flavor in the dessert industry, earning itself the nickname the turmeric of the dessert world. This unique combination of mint and chocolate has become a sensation, with mint chocolate desserts popping up everywhere from ice cream shops to bakeries.
The Rise of Mint Chocolate
The popularity of mint chocolate can be traced back to 1939 when the American cookie brand Girl Scouts introduced mint chocolate cookies. A few years later, the American ice cream brand Baskin-Robbins launched mint chocolate-flavored ice cream, which has remained a bestseller ever since.
In the 1990s, Baskin-Robbins brought mint chocolate ice cream to South Korea, but it did not gain much traction at the time. However, in 2021, the flavor became a hot topic on the Korean internet, sparking debates among young people. The debate over whether to like or not like mint chocolate even led to the creation of various mint chocolate-themed foods, such as mint chocolate burgers, ramen, and pizza.
The Science Behind the Coolness
The sensation of coolness that mint brings is not a result of actual temperature reduction but rather the activation of specific nerve receptors in the body by menthol, a compound found in mint. This creates a tingling sensation that feels like having an air conditioner in the mouth, especially in the hot summer months.
Beyond Taste: A Social Symbol
Mint chocolate has transcended its food status to become a social symbol and a way to divide people into groups. The controversy surrounding the flavor has brought it even more attention, with many people eager to try it out.
Mint Chocolate Products
The trend has prompted many companies to launch mint chocolate products, ranging from ice cream and milkshakes to pastries and even drinks. Some notable examples include:
- Ice Cream: DQ, Soya, and Magnum have all released mint chocolate flavors.
- Beverages: Green Tea and Momo have introduced mint chocolate ice lattes, while Coco Fresh and More Yogurt have launched mint chocolate drinks.
- Desserts: Mungo has released a Mint Black Chocolate Cool Season series, which includes mint chocolate milkshakes, cool noodles, brownie snow ice, and yogurt crisp cookies.
The Controversy
Despite its growing popularity, mint chocolate remains a controversial flavor. Some people love it, while others find it too much like toothpaste or too cooling. Additionally, the color of mint chocolate, which is a shade of blue, may actually suppress appetite, according to research.
Conclusion
Mint chocolate has become a hot new flavor in the dessert world, with its cool and refreshing taste attracting a dedicated following. While it may not be for everyone, the unique combination of mint and chocolate is sure to delight those who enjoy it.
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