and probably your first flavor of choice for dessert and source of the best hot cocoa Nashville has to offer.
But how much do you really know about the people of at the bottom of the chocolate chain? Hardworking small-scale farmers produce more than 90 percent of cocoa used to create the chocolate you enjoy. Most of these farmers are living below the poverty level. Without access to proper tools such as scales, boots, storage bags, and even resources as basic as clean water, these farmers suffer every day.
Who doesn't love the comforting taste of a cup of hot cocoa? On cold winter days, nothing warms you up quite like a steaming mug. But did you know that drinking hot cocoa can also bring many health benefits along with it? Here are just a few reasons why adding a cup of hot cocoa to your diet can be great for your health!
One major benefit is that drinking hot cocoa increases your daily intake of antioxidants. Flavanols, which are abundant in cocoa powder, have been proven to reduce inflammation and improve blood flow. Studies have even suggested that flavanols reduce the risk factors for heart disease by lowering cholesterol levels and improving artery flexibility. The high concentration of antioxidants found in a single cup of hot cocoa is sure to give your body a much-needed boost!
In addition, drinking hot cocoa has also been shown to have anti-aging effects. The powerful antioxidants found in cocoa can help fight skin damage caused by the sun and environmental pollutants, resulting in smoother, healthier skin. Not only that, but studies have linked flavanols with improved brain health as well. Some researchers believe they may even be able to reverse some of the cognitive decline associated with aging.
And let’s not forget about its comforting factor! There’s something undeniably special about sitting down and enjoying a cup of hot cocoa on a cold day. It invites relaxation and creates an atmosphere of warmth and contentment. And when it comes to your mental health, this can be invaluable.
It's clear that hot cocoa isn’t just a delicious treat; it has real health benefits, too! So why not cozy up with a warm mug of cocoa and enjoy all its amazing advantages? You won't regret it!
If you’re a coffee lover, then you know that the various offerings at your favorite cafe or coffee shop are almost limitless. From bold Americanos to creamy Lattes and everything in between, there is something for every palate. Let’s take a look at some of the top picks from many popular coffee shops!
Americano: The Americano is one of the simplest and most classic coffees at any café. An Americano is made by adding hot water to espresso shots to dilute them, creating a strong but smooth beverage with plenty of flavor.
Mochas: If you love chocolate flavors in your coffee, Mochas are the way to go. They start off as an Americano with shots of espresso, but steamed milk and a shot (or two) of chocolate syrup are added for a delicious sweet beverage.
Macchiatos: Macchiatos have become increasingly popular over the past few years. They start off as an espresso with just a small amount of steamed milk or foam, creating an intense flavor with just a hint of sweetness.
Cappuccinos: Cappuccinos are one of the most recognizable coffees around. Made with shots of espresso, hot milk and topped off with foam, they make for a creamy and flavorful coffee drink that is sure to please.
Lattes: Lattes are similar to cappuccinos but differ in that they contain more steamed milk and less foam, making for a creamy beverage with plenty of flavor.
No matter what your preference is, there’s sure to be something to suit your tastes at any coffee shop or cafe. From classic Americanos to decadent Lattes, you can find the perfect pick-me-up no matter the occasion! So go ahead and explore all that the world of coffee has to offer! You won’t regret it.
Your support of small-scale farmers helps them to have a voice in the cocoa industry. It gives them power to improve their livelihoods and chocolate at the same time. Whether your ordering the best hot cocoa from the best coffee shop in Nashville! Not only does your purchase of Nashville's Best help these farmers, but it also helps to preserve family farms and keep farming practices traditional. When you buy from us, you support local.
What if you could improve the lives of these farmers? What if you could help them prepare a brighter future for themselves and their families? What if you could give them access to the resources they need to break free from poverty…just by eating chocolate? Music City Coffees is a true believer in the fair trade coffee and cocoa business. It is how we know we have the best coffee and the best hot cocoa in Nashville! Not only do we provide the freshest ingredients but we provide a tremendous way to support local communities around the world right here in Nashville!
Introducing the Global Cocoa Project. Learn more about the project and how to get involved in Nashville.